By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, June 07, 2026 - President William Ruto has rewarded FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia with a KSh10 million cash donation and pledged KSh100,000 to each player following the club's successful 2025/26 league campaign.
The announcement was made on Sunday during a special ceremony at State House, Nairobi, where Gor Mahia officials, players, and members of the technical bench presented the FKF Premier League trophy to the Head of State. The visit came just days after K'Ogalo secured a record-extending 22nd league title, further cementing their status as Kenya's most successful football club.
The reception marked a significant moment for Kenyan football, with Gor Mahia becoming one of the few local clubs to receive official recognition at the highest level of government following a major sporting achievement.
While receiving the trophy, President Ruto praised the club's discipline, consistency, and contribution to the growth of football in Kenya.
Addressing the players and officials, the President announced an immediate personal reward of KSh100,000 for every player present and promised an additional KSh10 million to be deposited into the club's accounts to support its operations and future ambitions.
The President also reiterated his government's commitment to sports development, stating that the Ministry of Sports would continue working on mechanisms to nurture talent and strengthen sports structures across the country.
The State House event proved to be more than just a trophy presentation.
Several political leaders and dignitaries present at the celebrations also announced contributions to the club.
According to reports, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi pledged KSh3.2 million, with portions of the funds earmarked for players and club management. Former ICT Cabinet Secretary and Gor Mahia patron Eliud Owalo also contributed KSh1 million during the celebrations. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga was among leaders who joined in supporting the champions.
The donations add to the financial rewards already earned by Gor Mahia through winning the FKF Premier League title.
Gor Mahia reclaimed the league crown after an impressive campaign under head coach Charles Akonnor.
More from Kenya
K'Ogalo finished the season on 69 points and secured the championship with matches to spare before being officially crowned at Nyayo National Stadium. The title was their 22nd league championship, extending their own record as the most successful club in Kenyan football history.
The triumph also secured the club's return to the CAF Champions League, where they will once again represent Kenya on the continental stage.
The State House reception follows growing calls from football stakeholders for Gor Mahia to receive national recognition.
Earlier in the week, Treasury CS John Mbadi publicly argued that the club's achievements warranted recognition at the highest level of government, citing their dominance in Kenyan football and their historic contribution to the sport in East Africa.
For many supporters, Sunday's event was viewed as an acknowledgment of Gor Mahia's role in shaping Kenyan football over several decades.
Founded in 1968, the club has won numerous league titles, domestic trophies, and regional honors while producing some of Kenya's most celebrated footballers.
With the league title secured and fresh financial backing received, attention now turns to Gor Mahia's preparations for the upcoming CAF Champions League campaign.
The KSh10 million pledge from President Ruto, combined with contributions from other leaders and the league prize money already earned by the club, provides a significant financial boost as the Green Army prepares for continental competition.
As K'Ogalo sets its sights on Africa, the challenge now will be converting domestic dominance into meaningful success on the continental stage.