Twelve-time Football Kenya Federation Premier League champions AFC Leopards have taken a bold step toward transforming the 60-year-old club into a corporate entity.
The proposed structure would see 51 percent of the club’s shares allocated to signed-up members, while strategic investors would hold the remaining 49 percent.
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Speaking on behalf of the AFC Leopards Corporate Taskforce, Secretary Richard Ekhalie expressed optimism about the process following a successful 10-day public participation tour in Western Kenya.
“Club members have been eager to know their status in the proposed corporate structure. Most of them are pleased with the mixed ownership model that guarantees their place on the high table of decision-making,” Ekhalie said as per
The public participation tour, which ran from November 14, was part of a broader effort to gather views from fans and educate members on the benefits of commercializing football.
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The taskforce, led by Chairperson Vincent Shimoli, has been tasked with presenting its findings by February 2025 for review during the club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM).
During the Western Kenya tour, town hall-style sessions were held in Kakamega, Vihiga, and other key regions.
Fans engaged in lively discussions about football ownership models, the importance of talent development, and strategies to ensure AFC Leopards’ sustainability.
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The taskforce emphasized that AFC Leopards’ shift from a society to a corporate structure would ensure financial stability, improved governance, and long-term planning.
The club’s legends, who attended the sessions, stressed the importance of grassroots talent development and proposed a legacy programme to honor past achievements and inspire future generations.
According to the taskforce, fans’ contributions during the tour will shape the final recommendations.
Members raised critical questions and offered suggestions on how the corporate structure could benefit the club without alienating its traditional fan base.
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Branches represented during the Western Kenya tour included Khayega, Musoli, Bukura/Shibuli, Kabras, and Lirhanda.
The proposed corporate structure opens doors for AFC Leopards to attract strategic investors who can bring financial muscle and expertise to the club.
The taskforce has until February 2025 to finalize its findings, after which the club’s National Executive Committee will review the recommendations before presenting them at the AGM.
If approved AFC Leopards will join the growing list of football clubs worldwide that have embraced corporate structures to achieve professional excellence.