Nairobi, Kenya – August 21, 2024: Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has called on AFC Leopards to rise to the occasion and bring back the glory days for the club. Speaking at a gala event sponsored by the U45 Unit branch at the Maa Hotel, Mudavadi urged the players to pull up their socks and set their sights on the Kenya Premier League (KPL) title, which has eluded them since 1998.
A Call to Break the Jinx
As a devoted fan of Ingwe, Mudavadi expressed his desire to see the team finally wrestle the KPL title from their arch-rivals, Gor Mahia. He committed to attending more matches in support of the club and encouraged the club's 83 branches to emulate the U45 Unit Branch's dedication to supporting the team.
“It’s time to break the jinx and make AFC Leopards proud again,” Mudavadi said, emphasizing the need for renewed effort and determination from the players.
Celebrating the Club’s Best Performers
The gala also honored the club’s top performers of the 2023-2024 season. Central midfielder Victor Omuno was named the Best Player of the Season, taking home Sh75,000. Omuno, who was also voted Player of the Year, was recognized for his outstanding performance, scoring eight goals and providing 15 assists.
Utility player Kayci Odhiambo was celebrated as the Fans’ Player of the Season, earning Sh85,000. Odhiambo’s remarkable season included making his international debut for Harambee Stars.
Despite a challenging start that saw AFC Leopards languishing in 17th place, the team made a strong comeback, finishing fifth in the league and reaching the semifinals of the FKF Cup competition.
Looking Ahead: A Promise of Trophies
Club Chairman Dan Shikanda acknowledged the challenges faced in the previous season but expressed confidence in the team’s potential for the upcoming season. He called on the players and coaching staff to strive for titles and trophies, assuring that lessons from last season had been learned.
“We faced many challenges early in the season, but the fans never gave up, and the players responded,” Shikanda said. “It’s only fair we organize such an event to celebrate everyone who makes this club unique.”
U45 Unit branch chairman Olympia Musonye, who played a key role in organizing the event, highlighted the branch’s commitment to transforming the club through resource mobilization and expanding its support base beyond the Luhya community.
AFC Leopards coach Tomas Trucha praised the efforts of the U45 Unit Branch and encouraged other branches to follow suit. “It’s great to see a branch like U45 honoring the club’s best performers. I only see this in Europe. We promise to reward you with trophies,” Trucha said.
New Players and the Upcoming Season
During the gala, AFC Leopards also unveiled their new signings, led by South Sudan captain Peter Manyang, forward Sydney Lokale, wing-back Julius Masaba, and Samuel Semo. As the Kenya Premier League kicks off this weekend, Ingwe is set to face Mathare United in their opening match for the 2024/2025 season.
The club and its supporters are hopeful that this season will mark a turning point, as they aim to reclaim their place at the pinnacle of Kenyan football.
