President William Ruto has announced a Ksh35 million financial boost for AFC Leopards after hosting the club at State House, increasing its sponsorship package to Ksh100 million while also awarding funds to support players and recruitment.
The Head of State made the announcement on Wednesday, July 15, during a meeting with officials, players and the technical bench of the 12-time FKF Premier League champions. The support package follows similar assistance recently extended to several Kenyan football clubs and national teams.
Sponsorship package increased
President Ruto revealed that AFC Leopards already had sponsorship worth Ksh75 million and pledged an additional Ksh25 million to raise the total sponsorship to Ksh100 million.
He further announced a separate Ksh10 million grant, with half of the amount earmarked for the players and technical bench as a reward, while the remaining funds will support the club’s player transfer activities.
“I have been informed that your club already has sponsorship worth Ksh75 million. We will add another Ksh25 million so that the total sponsorship rises to Ksh100 million,” Ruto said.
President defends government investment in sports
The President defended the government’s continued financial support for sports, saying investing in athletes and sporting institutions is an investment in the country’s future rather than an unnecessary public expense.
According to Ruto, sports have become a major economic sector capable of creating employment, generating income and elevating Kenya’s profile internationally.
He dismissed criticism over the time and resources the government has dedicated to sports, insisting the sector forms part of the country’s broader development agenda.
“There is no better investment than investing in the future of our young people. Supporting sports is not a distraction from government work; it is an important part of government business,” he said.
AFC Leopards praise government support
AFC Leopards Secretary General Isaac Mulindi welcomed the President’s commitment, saying the government’s investment in sports infrastructure and transport has directly benefited football clubs across the country.
He cited improvements in road networks, noting that clubs now travel more safely and conveniently for league fixtures.
Mulindi also pointed to ongoing construction and upgrading of sports facilities, describing them as evidence of the government’s efforts to strengthen Kenya’s sporting environment.
State House hosts more sports teams
AFC Leopards become the latest beneficiaries of President Ruto’s growing support for Kenyan sports following a series of meetings with clubs and national teams at State House.
In June, FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia received Ksh10 million to support their CAF Champions League campaign, while every player was also awarded Ksh100,000.
Earlier this week, National Super League champions Migori Youth were presented with a new team bus alongside Ksh10 million during a breakfast meeting with the President.
On Tuesday, Ruto also hosted the senior women’s national football team and the Junior Starlets, promising additional support as they prepare for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.
Shabana FC has also benefited from government support after receiving a team bus valued at Ksh27 million, a Ksh20 million grant and Ksh1 billion earmarked for the rehabilitation of Gusii Stadium.
Government maintains focus on sports development
The latest funding reinforces the government’s push to strengthen sports development through financial support, improved infrastructure and better preparation for local and international competitions.
The administration has maintained that continued investment in clubs, athletes and sporting facilities will help nurture talent, create employment opportunities and enhance Kenya’s competitiveness on the regional and global stage.
