SportPesa, Kenya’s leading online gaming company, has unveiled a monumental Ksh 75 million sponsorship agreement with Football Kenya Federation Premier League side Shabana FC. This game-changing partnership solidifies SportPesa’s role as a pillar in Kenya’s sporting landscape, now extending its support to three topflight clubs, alongside Gor Mahia and Murang’a Seal.

The SportPesa sponsorship, set to span three seasons, will take immediate effect as Shabana FC embarks on the 2024/2025 topflight campaign kicking off on 24 August. The deal was announced at a grand unveiling ceremony attended by club patron and Kisii Governor, Hon. Simba Arati, who hailed SportPesa’s continued commitment to the development of Kenyan sports.

A commitment to growing Kenyan football

SportPesa’s Head of Operations, Bernard Chauro, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the new partnership, highlighting the shared vision between SportPesa and Shabana FC in promoting football and nurturing talent in Kenya.

“Today marks a significant milestone for us in the realm of sponsorships and partnerships. We have been a key player in Kenyan sports for years, and now, Shabana’s management, players, and fans can rest assured that they have a reliable partner to walk this journey with them,” said Chauro. “Shabana FC boasts one of the most passionate fanbases in the country, and we are excited to support them in their quest to compete at the continental level alongside our other sponsored teams.”

Leadership support and a call for prudence

Governor Simba Arati, who also serves as Shabana’s club patron, expressed his gratitude to SportPesa for the significant investment in the club’s future. He called on the club’s management to use the funds wisely, ensuring that the team thrives both on and off the pitch.

“This is a monumental occasion for us, and I am overjoyed as Shabana’s patron. I want to personally thank SportPesa for their partnership,” said Arati. “To the management, let us ensure that this money is safeguarded from those who may seek to disrupt our progress. We have a great responsibility to our fans and the community.”

Shabana FC chairman, Jared Nivaton, echoed Arati’s sentiments, underscoring the importance of the sponsorship in aligning with the club’s long-term goals.

“I am deeply humbled by this partnership, which is a significant milestone for our club. SportPesa’s investment aligns perfectly with our shared vision for the growth of football and the youth in this country,” said Nivaton. “We, as the Shabana fraternity, are committed to making SportPesa proud by delivering on and off the pitch.”

Shabana FC’s promising future

Shabana FC, affectionately known as “Tore Bobe,” made a triumphant return to the Kenya Premier League in the 2023/2024 season after a 17-year absence. Despite the challenges of re-establishing themselves in the topflight, the team managed a commendable 14th-place finish under the guidance of former Kenyan international Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo.

The 2024/2025 season promises to be even more exciting for Shabana, with the club making several impressive signings, including Elvis Osok and Titus Achesa from Posta Rangers, and Kevin Omundi from Mully Children’s Family (MCF). The club’s new recruits, alongside seasoned players like Cliff Nyakeya and Maxwell Muchesia from AFC Leopards, are set to boost Shabana’s chances of competing at the highest levels.

Shabana will kick off their new season with an away match against Bidco United at Thika Stadium on Saturday, 24 August.

Tujiamini Initiative: empowering Kenyan sports and talent

In addition to the sponsorship, SportPesa reaffirmed its commitment to Kenya’s sports and talent ecosystem through the “Tujiamini” initiative. This program aims to provide up to Ksh 30 million in funding to support individual athletes, teams, and various talents across the country. The initiative seeks to inspire pride and excellence in Kenya’s sports and talent sectors, with applications open on the website www.tujiamini.co.ke.

SportPesa’s sponsorship of Shabana FC is a testament to the company’s unwavering support for the growth of Kenyan football and its dedication to uplifting communities through sports. With this partnership, Shabana FC is poised for a bright future, with the backing of one of Kenya’s most prominent and committed sponsors.