"Truly grateful": Shabana FC receives KSh 10m from Ruto for new team bus

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- President William Ruto delivered KSh 10 million, the outstanding balance of a KSh 20 million pledge, to Kisii-based Shabana FC

- Governor Paul Simba Arati, who serves as the club's patron, personally presented the cash to the team management on August 19

- Shabana FC also received a brand new team bus from the President as the club prepares to relocate to Afraha Stadium

President William Ruto has fulfilled a financial commitment to Shabana Football Club, delivering the outstanding KSh 10 million balance of a KSh 20 million pledge to procure a new team bus, the club announced on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

Shabana FC confirmed the development through an official letter signed by Secretary General Dr. Elizaphan Kerama and addressed directly to the president.

The club also shared the update on its verified Facebook page, where Governor Paul Simba Arati, who serves as club patron, was credited with personally facilitating the handover.

Ruto's support for Shabana FC

The KSh 10 million cash delivery drew significant attention after images circulated showing Governor Arati presenting numerous bundles of banknotes to the club's management.

The funds form part of the broader KSh 20 million that President Ruto pledged to Shabana FC through the governor's patronage arrangement.

In the letter to the President, the club stated that the financial support was intended to assist with the team's relocation to Afraha Stadium while Gusii Stadium undergoes reconstruction and upgrading to international standards.

The new team bus was also noted as a separate and significant contribution from the President.

"Your Excellency, you promised, and you delivered. We are truly grateful," the club wrote in its letter.

During the morning meeting between Governor Arati and club management, the patron called upon other leaders to step up and support the club going forward.

Both the playing unit and fans were commended for their continued backing of the team.

See the post below:

Fan react

The announcement drew a wave of responses from supporters online.

Bichah George wrote:

"Thank you Mr president for keeping your promise."

Steve Mmoja Maronga added:

"The president deserves accolades on this, he has stood firm with our team positively."

Dennis Nyamboga Aming'a directed praise at both leaders, writing:

"Thank you his excellence Paul Simba Arati for your support through the excellence Dr William Ruto."

King Raphael raised a question many fans echoed:

"What about the stadium?"

Shabanaextra1 commented:

"Something like this won't be bad, If it's delivered I'll vote tutam because of shabana."

Shabana FC, based in Kisii, competes in Kenyan top-flight football and counts Governor Arati among its most prominent backers.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.