AFC Leopards received a major boost ahead of the new season after President William Ruto announced a multi-million support package during a breakfast meeting with the club’s officials, players and technical bench at State House, Nairobi, on Wednesday.
The Head of State pledged Ksh. 10 million to the club following Ingwe’s second-place finish in the 2025/26 SportPesa League season. Of the amount, Ksh. 5 million will be used to strengthen the squad through new signings, while the remaining Ksh. 5 million will be shared among the players as a reward for their performances.
“You are entering into a new season and need to sign more players. I will give you Ksh. 10 million. ksh. 5 million will be used to sign new players, while the other Ksh. 5 million will go to the players so that they have something to take home,” Ruto said.
Ruto also committed to secure an additional Ksh. 25 million annually to supplement the club’s existing sponsorship, increasing AFC Leopards’ financial backing from Ksh. 75 million to Ksh. 100 million per year.
Beyond the financial package, the President directed Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya to work with the club on plans to upgrade AFC Leopards’ training ground, describing quality infrastructure as essential for long-term success.
The President said the government’s investment in sports is aimed at creating employment and economic opportunities for young people, adding that Kenya must begin treating sports as a serious industry rather than just recreation.
He cited the Raila Odinga Talanta Stadium as a model for the future, noting that the football-specific facility will include commercial amenities such as restaurants, gyms, ICT hubs and creative spaces to ensure it remains financially sustainable beyond match days.
Ruto also revealed that reforms to the Sports Act are underway to improve governance, strengthen commercialisation, attract investors and sponsors, and enhance athlete welfare.
He challenged Kenyan clubs to embrace professionalism by investing in youth development, building strong governance structures and creating commercially sustainable brands capable of attracting long-term partnerships.
The President praised AFC Leopards’ rich football heritage, noting that the club remains one of Kenya’s most successful sides..
Congratulating the players, technical bench, management and supporters for an impressive season, Ruto urged Ingwe not to settle for a second-place finish but to target reclaiming the league title and re-establishing themselves as a force in African club football.
