President William Ruto on Sunday handed over a brand new Sh27 million team bus to Shabana FC in a major boost to the Kisii-based side.
The handover ceremony took place at Gusii Stadium during the President’s development tour of Kisii and Nyamira counties, drawing hundreds of excited fans who turned up to witness the milestone moment.
Modern bus to boost team performance
The new bus, a customised double-axle Isuzu unit, has been designed with player comfort in mind. Although originally built to carry 65 passengers, it has been modified to accommodate 45, allowing for extra legroom, VIP seating and high-end interior finishes.
Painted in Shabana’s iconic red colours, the bus is expected to significantly ease the team’s travel across the country for Kenya Premier League fixtures. Reduced travel fatigue is anticipated to improve player performance and morale as the club continues to compete at the top level.
Club Secretary General Elizaphan Kerama welcomed the donation, saying it will greatly enhance players’ welfare and overall team logistics.
The bus replaces an older one that had been donated to the club in 2020 during the tenure of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Sh1 billion Gusii Stadium facelift
In addition to the bus donation, President Ruto also launched a Sh1 billion refurbishment project at Gusii Stadium. The upgrade will include installation of a FIFA-standard pitch, an eight-lane running track, and expansion of the stadium’s capacity to 14,000 seats.
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The six-month project, expected to be completed by December, will be overseen by the Kenya Defence Forces.
During the construction period, Shabana FC will be forced to seek an alternative venue for its home matches. To cushion the club, the President issued Sh20 million to facilitate match venue arrangements.
The stadium expansion had previously stalled due to land occupied by the Agricultural Society of Kenya, but the government has now allocated funds to relocate the offices and pave way for full development.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati praised the initiative, noting it will not only improve sports infrastructure but also stimulate local economic activity and elevate the club’s brand.
A club rooted in history and resilience
Founded in 1980 as a youth team known as Olympic, Shabana FC rose to prominence after businessman Dogo Khan transformed it into a structured club and renamed it after his business.
The team made its Kenya Premier League debut in 1985 and quickly grew into a competitive force, finishing third in 1987 behind giants Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.
After enduring a 17-year absence from top-flight football, Shabana made a remarkable return to the Premier League in 2023 and has since been rebuilding its legacy.
Currently, the “Glamour Boys” sit fifth on the league table with 43 points from 27 matches in the 2025/2026 season, trailing behind Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards, Police FC and Homeboyz.
Shabana’s latest boost—both in transport and infrastructure—signals renewed confidence in grassroots football, reinforcing the government’s commitment to nurturing local talent and elevating Kenya’s sporting standards.
