How AFC Leopards Moved Closer to Permanent Home
AFC Leopards have moved a step closer to securing a permanent home after unveiling plans to transform a facility in Karen into a world-class training ground under a 15-year lease agreement.
The Football Kenya Federation Premier League club said the project will be developed at the Karen Technical Training Institute for the Deaf, with the initiative receiving backing from senior government officials as Kenya prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Club officials visited the institution on Thursday, where they were hosted by the school’s Principal, Madam Tecla Chemogo, during a ceremony attended by Cabinet Secretaries Wycliffe Oparanya and Salim Mvurya, Ikolomani MP Bernard Shinali, club patron Alex Muteshi and former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria.
“FC Leopards takes this opportunity to appreciate Madam Tecla Chemogo, the Principal of Karen Technical Training Institute for the Deaf for hosting us yesterday at your facility where the club is looking forward to developing the premise into a world class training facility following a 15-year lease agreement.”
The ambitious project is expected to provide Ingwe with a permanent training base, ending years of relying on different venues for training and preparations.
The club believes the facility will not only strengthen its football operations but also position it to contribute to Kenya’s preparations for hosting the 2027 AFCON alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
Government Backs Training Ground Project
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya assured the club of government support, saying the project aligns with the country’s plans to improve sports infrastructure ahead of the continental tournament.
“Hon. Salim Mvurya assured the club of the government support towards this great initiative from the club that will ensure that we get a quality permanent training ground which is in line with the government as the country gears towards hosting the 2027 AFCON that might serve as a training base for one of the participating countries.”
If completed as planned, the facility could be among the venues considered as training bases for one of the teams participating in the expanded 2027 AFCON tournament.
Beyond the training ground, the meeting also discussed the registration of the AFC Leopards Travellers Sacco, an initiative aimed at strengthening the club’s financial and organisational structures.
According to the club, the registration process is being handled by Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and MSME Development Wycliffe Oparanya.
Club Thanks Government Leaders
The club’s National Executive Committee, led by chairman Bonface Ambani, expressed appreciation to the Ministries of Education, Sports and Co-operatives for supporting the initiative.
Club officials said the collaboration between the three ministries would play a key role in ensuring the project becomes a reality while helping AFC Leopards take another step towards long-term stability.
The club also thanked President William Ruto for fulfilling a pledge made during a previous breakfast meeting at State House.
According to AFC Leopards, the President’s commitment was delivered to members of the playing unit and supporters who attended the function.
Securing a permanent, modern training facility for Ingwe has long been viewed as a critical milestone that could improve player development, professionalise operations and enhance competitiveness on and off the pitch.
The latest development also reflects growing collaboration between football clubs and the government as Kenya accelerates investment in sports infrastructure ahead of the 2027 AFCON.
