By KPC Reporter
President William Ruto’s gifting of a Sh27 million bus to Shabana FC on Sunday marked a significant milestone for the Kisii-based football club.
It also symbolized recognition and renewed confidence in its role in Kenya’s football.
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The handover ceremony at Gusii Stadium was part of the President’s ongoing development tour of Kisii and Nyamira Counties.
The modern double-axle Isuzu bus, customized to accommodate 45 passengers with extra legroom and VIP seating, is expected to ease the team’s travels for Kenya Premier League fixtures, reducing fatigue and boosting morale.
Shabana FC Secretary General Dr. Elizaphan Kerama expressed gratitude to fans and the Head of State, noting: “We extend our deepest and most sincere appreciation to our fans for the overwhelming reception accorded to the team from Nairobi to Kisii. Your unwavering support, passion, and loyalty continue to inspire and uplift the club, we are truly grateful.”
The bus, painted in Shabana’s iconic red, arrived in Kisii town on Saturday from Nairobi, accompanied by supporters who had traveled to escort it home.
Hundreds of fans thronged Gusii Stadium to witness the unveiling, celebrating what many described as a major upgrade from the old bus handed to the club by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2020.
Alongside the bus handover, President Ruto launched a Sh1 billion refurbishment of Gusii Stadium.
The six-month project, overseen by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), will deliver a FIFA-standard pitch, an eight-lane track, and seating for 14,000 spectators.
The President affirmed: “The Government is committed to strengthening sports and development by improving facilities and supporting local teams to compete at higher levels.”
During the upgrade, Shabana will seek alternative venues, with the President allocating Sh20 million to aid in match arrangements.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati lauded the initiative, saying it would boost local economic activities and enhance Shabana’s brand prestige.
The ceremony was attended by several leaders including Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, and State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke, who also serves as Shabana’s Goodwill Ambassador.
Shabana FC’s journey reflects grit and perseverance. Founded in 1980 as Olympic, the club was transformed by businessman Dogo Khan into Shabana FC, named after his hardware business.
The team rose to prominence in the mid-1980s, finishing third in the 1987 Premier League season alongside giants Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.
After enduring 17 years outside the top tier, Shabana made a dramatic comeback in 2023.
Today, under interim head coach Andrew Ongwae, the “Glamour Boys” sit fifth in the KPL table with 43 points from 27 matches in the 2025/2026 season.
Dr Kerama said in the official statement: “Mnyama lazima ubebe kikombe!” — a rallying cry that captures the spirit of a club determined to reclaim its glory.
