For decades, Kenya’s Shabana FC has stood as a symbol of resilience and community pride within Kisii and beyond. In 2024, SportPesa announced a landmark partnership with Shabana FC. This collaboration represents a shared commitment to elevating Kenyan football, nurturing talent and building lasting community pride.
A Transformative Partnership
In August 2024, SportPesa unveiled a major KSh 75 million sponsorship deal with Shabana FC, covering the 2024/25, 2025/26 and 2026/27 FKF Premier League seasons.
The partnership was formally launched at an event attended by club patron and Kisii Governor Hon. Simba Arati. He hailed the agreement as a pivotal investment in the club’s future and a proud moment for the region.
SportPesa’s Head of Operations, Bernard Chauro, emphasised the shared vision underpinning the deal – a commitment to enhance Kenyan football, strengthen club structures, and support Shabana’s ambitions on the domestic and continental stage. He highlighted that the club has “one of the most passionate fanbases in the country” and that the partnership would bring even more fans closer to the action.
Supporting Success On and Off the Pitch
Stability and Investment in Talent
The partnership provides financial stability, enabling Shabana FC to strengthen its squad and support player wellbeing. It also allowed the club to make several key signings ahead of the 2024/25 season, including Elvis Osok, Titus Achesa, and Kevin Omundi – bolstering its competitive edge.
Backing a Return to Top‑flight Football
Shabana returned to the FKF Premier League after a 17‑year absence in the 2023/24 season, successfully avoiding relegation and setting the stage for renewed ambition. The SportPesa sponsorship brought resources and renewed optimism, aligning with the club’s goal of becoming one of Kenya’s top teams.
Driving Performance and Community Pride
Shabana’s on‑field progress has been notable, with key victories that reflect growing cohesion, confidence and tactical discipline. After finishing 14th in the 2023–24 campaign, the club rose to 5th place in 2024–25 – a marked improvement that signalled their intent. They have built on that momentum with an impressive six‑match unbeaten run in the 2025–26 league, keeping them firmly in contention at the top end of the table.
These results reflect a team fuelled by belief, fan passion and renewed institutional support.
A Partnership Rooted in Community
Shabana FC’s identity is inseparable from its fanbase – one of Kenya’s largest, most loyal and vibrant. SportPesa’s investment protects and amplifies that heritage, ensuring that the club’s success directly strengthens community morale and regional pride. Local leaders have praised the partnership as creating a “new chapter for community football“.
Looking Ahead
The SportPesa–Shabana FC partnership marks the beginning of a new era for a historic club with vast potential. With improved resourcing, strengthened management and one of the region’s most dedicated fanbases, Shabana FC is reclaiming its status as a powerhouse in Kenyan football.
It is a partnership that shows the SportPesa effect in action – sustained investment, rising performance and a renewed belief in what Shabana FC can achieve.
SportPesa remains committed to supporting the club – backing its ambitions, celebrating achievements and ensuring that its fan stay at the heart of the action.
