The newly elected AFC Leopards chairman, Boniface Ambani, has pledged to turn around the fortunes of the Kenyan behemoths.
A former Ingwe striker and youth team coach, Ambani made the remarks after beating Enos Mutoka to secure the top seat.
The election, held at the iconic Moi Stadium in Kasarani, was marked by an impressive turnout of fans, underscoring the deep-rooted passion that Kenyans have for their football.
From the early hours of the morning, supporters lined up, eager to cast their votes. Ambani's victory was decisive; he garnered 1,101 votes against Mutoka's 682, reflecting a collective yearning for change and a brighter future.
Upon his election, Ambani, 42, expressed a profound understanding of the challenges that have plagued the club.
With a resounding victory over Mutoka, Ambani has taken the reins with a clear vision to restore the glory of one of Kenya's oldest and most revered football institutions.
"AFC Leopards has a rich history, but we cannot ignore the challenges that have led to a decline in confidence from the football family and the general public," a visibly elated Ambani said upon his election, his voice resonating with determination.
Ambani's mantra is clear: the time for change is now. He aims to breathe life back into the club, fostering an environment devoid of delinquency while enhancing stakeholder participation.
"My team and I believe this is the opportune moment to make a positive change. Our 'IPOSIKU' mantra is about bringing back life to the game, ensuring it's rid of any delinquency, and fostering increased stakeholder participation," he added.
To operationalise this vision, Ambani has introduced an 11-point agenda known as 'The Starting XI.' This comprehensive strategy is not merely a list of aspirations; it is a blueprint for a transformative journey.
Developed with insights from seasoned football administrators and professionals, the agenda prioritises transparency, accountability, and inclusivity—values that resonate deeply within the football community.
The agenda outlines several key initiatives aimed at restoring AFC Leopards to its former prominence, both in Kenya and on the continental stage. At the heart of Ambani’s approach is the modernisation of the club’s brand.
"In an era where football is as much about image as it is about performance, a refreshed brand identity can attract new fans, sponsors, and partners," he said.
Infrastructure investment is another critical component of Ambani’s vision.
"By establishing uniform training facilities and fully equipped club offices, the club can enhance its operational efficiency and provide its players with the resources necessary to excel," he said.
Furthermore, Ambani recognises the importance of engaging with fans and branches, ensuring that the voices of supporters are heard and valued in the decision-making processes. Financial management also stands as a cornerstone of Ambani's strategy.
"The club can achieve financial stability by diversifying revenue streams through sponsorships, merchandise sales, and ticket sales," he said.
A nearly finalised kit sponsorship agreement promises to bolster the club's coffers, while the establishment of a medical fund for injured athletes demonstrates a commitment to player welfare—an often overlooked aspect of football administration.
Ambani's vision extends beyond the immediate needs of the first team. The establishment of a youth development pipeline is a forward-thinking initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of talent.
"AFC Leopards can secure their future and help Kenyan football grow at the same time by investing in young players," he said.
Moreover, Ambani's commitment to boosting funding for the women's team reflects a progressive understanding of the evolving landscape of football.
"Women’s football has gained significant traction globally, and by prioritising this area, AFC Leopards can position itself as a leader in promoting gender equality within the sport," he said.
He reckons AFC Leopards cannot thrive in isolation; it must forge robust relationships with key stakeholders, including the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and FIFA.
"We plan to appoint a capable leadership group dedicated to strengthening these relationships in a strategic move that will enhance the club's standing on both national and international stages," he said.
In addition, the creation of new departments—such as marketing, legal, and monitoring—aims to improve service delivery and operational efficiency.
By professionalising the club's administration, Ambani is laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and success.
