President William Ruto has thrown his weight behind newly promoted Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League side, Nairobi United FC, promising a Sh10 million investment to support the club’s top-flight journey.
The President’s pledge follows a sensational season for the Nairobi-based outfit, which not only clinched the National Super League (NSL) title but also the FKF Cup, completing a remarkable double.
In the NSL, Nairobi United topped the standings with 79 points, ahead of APS Bomet, who amassed 75 points to finish second and third-placed Naivas with 69 points.
On June 29, they shocked football powerhouse Gor Mahia 2-1 to clinch the FKF Cup at a packed Ulinzi Sports Complex following goals from Frank Owia and Enock Mashaka's strikes.
Speaking during a reception at State House on Thursday, President Ruto lauded the club’s achievements and confirmed his commitment to their development. "I have heard you, and I will look for Sh10 million to invest in the Club. You also asked for a bus, and I will sort that out," Ruto said. He praised Nairobi United as a symbol of Kenya’s diversity and unity, saying the club epitomises the true spirit of the nation. "This is a team of the Kenyan community that is truly the face, brand and architecture of Kenya."
"The team features players from all communities, faiths and different backgrounds. You have jelled into one unit and today we celebrate you," he added. Ruto also reiterated his government’s commitment to reviving sports infrastructure across the country, noting a long-overdue return to stadium construction.
"The last time we built an international stadium in the country was 40 years ago. Now we are building a 60,000-seater stadium at Jamhuri grounds, which will be the largest stadium in the country, and it will be ready by December."
“In addition, we are building a new stadium in Kakamega, and we have completed another in Bungoma and are renovating facilities in Ruringu, Tharaka Nithi and Siaya, among others. On top of that, we are constructing 35 sports academies nationwide.”
Nairobi Governor and club patron Johnson Sakaja praised the team’s meteoric rise, saying their success has sparked hope among the youth. "The club chairman, Samwel Bon Main, was struggling with the team for a long time, and I decided to take the burden from his shoulders."
"This team has had an amazing season. They have defeated Kenyan giants like Tusker, KCB, Kakamega Homeboyz and even Gor Mahia. It has given so much hope to the youth of the country that no matter your background, you can make it," Sakaja said.
Head coach Nicholas Muyoti, the man at the helm of the club’s fairytale season, expressed his gratitude for the presidential recognition. "Most of our players are very young, so reaching here is a dream," Muyoti said.
