The month of February in the Sportpesa League belonged to two standout figures whose impact resonated across the league, as Humphrey Aroko of Kariobangi Sharks and Peter Okidi, then in charge of Shabana FC, were crowned the SportPesa Player and Coach of the Month respectively.
Aroko’s rise continues to capture the imagination of Kenyan football. Despite previously being overlooked, the Kariobangi Sharks midfielder has forced his name into the spotlight through sheer consistency and influence. A standout run that saw Kariobangi Sharks go unbeaten, with Aroko instrumental in lifting the side out of the relegation zone.
Over the course of the month, he registered two goals and two assists, took 13 shots, and created five chances, directly contributing to four crucial points for his side. His ability to dictate play and step up in decisive moments made him a clear standout, earning him the Player of the Month accolade.
The award, which includes a cash prize of Ksh.50,000 and a personalized trophy courtesy of league sponsors SportPesa, capped off a period of excellence for the young midfielder. He edged out strong competition from Enock Morrison of Gor Mahia, Joseph Irungu Waithira [King Joe ]of Murang’a SEAL, and Stephen Ochieng’, the dependable goalkeeper from Shabana FC.
Beyond the numbers, Aroko has emerged as one of the revelations of the 2025/26 season, scoring 12 goals across all competitions and establishing himself as a midfield engine for Kariobangi Sharks. Known for his intelligence in tight spaces, sharp first touch, and ability to unlock defenses, he continues to grow into a key figure for both club and the Kenya U20 setup. His performances against top sides such as Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards, and Ulinzi Stars have further cemented his reputation, with growing speculation linking him to a move either to Gor Mahia or abroad following his breakthrough campaign.
While Aroko dazzled individually, the dugout spotlight shone brightly on Peter Okidi, whose tactical leadership delivered perfection in February. The then Shabana FC head coach guided the Gusii-based side to four consecutive victories, maintaining a flawless 100 percent record throughout the month. His ability to organize the team, maximize player performance, and grind out results proved decisive in securing the Coach of the Month award.
However, in a twist that underlines the pressures of top-flight football, Okidi was later relieved of his duties at Shabana FC following a poor run of results at home and mounting pressure from the fanbase, despite the team sitting third on the league table at the time.
Okidi’s achievement becomes even more notable considering the level of competition he overcame. He edged out William Muluya of Kariobangi Sharks, Patrick Odhiambo of Kakamega Homeboyz, and Charles Akonnor of League Leaders Gor Mahia Fc, all of whom also enjoyed strong runs during the period.
Together, Aroko and Okidi represent the vibrancy and unpredictability of the Sportpesa League one a young midfield force rewriting his story after being overlooked, the other a tactician whose success in February contrasted sharply with the realities that followed.
