President Ruto donates Sh10M to AFC Leopards in grand 60th anniversary celebration

President William Ruto marked the climax of AFC Leopards' 60th-anniversary celebrations by donating Sh 10 million to the club during the event held at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday.

Highlighting the club's storied position in the annals of Kenyan football, Ruto lauded Leopards as an integral part of the country's sports heritage, alongside Gor Mahia and Shabana, the nation's most beloved teams.

In a generous show of support, Prime Cabinet Minister Musalia Mudavadi contributed Sh 1 million, while Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba donated Sh 2 million.

Additional contributions came from the Nairobi Governor and Bungoma Governor, each offering Sh 2 million and Sh 1 million, respectively. Nairobi Senator Edein Sifuna also pitched in with Sh 250,000.

The celebration spanned two days, starting from March 23, featuring various events, including a match against Spanish fourth division team AE Ramassa. Despite Ramassa's early lead, Leopards, with a squad comprising recent players and legends like Bernard Mang'oli, Charles Okwemba, and Ezekiel Odera, staged a thrilling comeback to win 4-3.

The festivities also included a draw between Leopards' ladies team and Gor Mahia queens, and a 1-1 result in the senior team's Mashemeji Derby clash against Gor Mahia, as well as a similar draw against Shabana FC.

Under the leadership of Chairman Dan Shikanda and a dedicated team, the event, which also featured a cultural Luhyia night, was a testament to the club's enduring legacy and community support.

Despite a 26-year league title drought, Head Coach Tomas Trucha and his squad are determined to end the wait by topping the league next season and aiming for the FKF Cup to secure a spot in the CAF Confederations Cup, a feat last achieved in 2018.