NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has awarded AFC Leopards Sh10 million, directing that half of the money be shared among players as bonuses while the remaining amount be used to strengthen the squad ahead of the upcoming football season.
Speaking at State House on Wednesday during a meeting with AFC Leopards’ leadership and players, the President said the financial support was aimed at rewarding the team’s recent progress while helping the club remain competitive in the Kenya Premier League.
Ruto instructed that Sh5 million be distributed among the players, with the remaining Sh5 million earmarked for recruiting new talent.
The Head of State reiterated his administration’s commitment to transforming sports into a key economic sector capable of creating jobs and empowering young people across the country.
He said the government no longer views sports merely as a recreational activity but as a strategic investment that can contribute significantly to Kenya’s economy.
According to the President, countries that invest in sports as an industry create employment opportunities, attract global events and expand economic opportunities beyond the playing field.
He pointed to Kenya’s plans to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as part of the country’s broader ambition to position itself as a regional sports hub.
Ruto praised AFC Leopards for overcoming past challenges and remaining one of Kenya’s most historic football institutions, noting that resilience had enabled the club to regain its competitive edge.
He also commended the team’s improved league performance and challenged the players to compete for trophies in the new season.
Beyond direct financial support, the President unveiled plans to develop sports infrastructure into commercial centres capable of generating revenue and creating employment.
He said the upcoming Talanta Sports City Stadium would include commercial spaces, gyms, meeting facilities, restaurants, ICT hubs and studios to support the growth of the sports economy.
The model, he added, will be replicated in stadiums across the country to ensure sports facilities serve both athletes and surrounding communities.
Ruto further pledged government support to help AFC Leopards improve its training facilities after the club requested assistance in developing land it currently occupies under a 15-year lease.
He directed the Ministry of Sports to work with the club on a design and resource mobilisation plan to upgrade the training grounds.
The President maintained that investing in sports remains part of his administration’s wider strategy of creating opportunities for Kenya’s youthful population through talent development, employment and enterprise.