AFC Leopards' newly signed forward Ellias Mugane/ HANDOUT
AFC Leopards have confirmed the signing of National Super League top scorer Ellias Mugane from Fortune Sacco FC on a two-year deal as the 13-time champions continue to beef up their squad ahead of the 2025/26 FKF Premier League season.
Mugane, who netted 22 goals and provided nine assists in the just-concluded campaign, steps up to the top flight after previously finishing as Division Two’s leading scorer with 18 goals in the 2018/19 season.
The centre forward’s arrival adds bite to Leopards’ attack as the club prepares for their season opener against Sofapaka on September 20 at Nyayo Stadium.
Ingwe have also promoted two players from their youth ranks, with attacking midfielder Deng Kang signing a three-year contract after being loaned to Division One side, Soy United, last season. Kang, described as a lanky playmaker with a strong eye for goal, has been with the junior team since 2023 and now graduates to the senior fold.
Another youth product, Jamal, has also earned a three-year deal after a successful spell at Soy United, joining fellow academy graduates Victor Otieno and Maxwell Otieno in the first team. The promotions underline Leopards’ commitment to building from within, with the club reaffirming their belief in nurturing young talent through structured development.
In addition, through a club statement, Brian Ojok Nyongesa joins AFC Leopard on a three-year contract. The right back joins us from NSL newbies Soy United, having played a pivotal role in their promotion to the National Super League."
Off the pitch, AFC Leopards announced a landmark agreement with the Kenya School of Law that grants the club preferential access to its sports grounds and facilities at competitive rates.
The deal includes provisions for the club to contribute to the upkeep and enhancement of the grounds, ensuring priority access to training and welfare needs throughout the season.
The club’s preparations have been further boosted by the renewal of their sponsorship deal with Betika, who confirmed a record-breaking three-year partnership worth KES 231 million, up from the KES 195 million package signed in 2022.
Under the new agreement, Leopards will receive Sh65 million plus Sh 7 million in bonuses in the first year, Sh 70 million plus Sh 7 million in the second and Sh 75 million plus Sh 7 million in the third.
Speaking during the announcement, Betika Group CEO Mutua Mutava said the company was proud to walk the journey with Leopards, describing the sponsorship as a long-term investment in Kenyan football.
“We are proud to continue this journey with AFC Leopards, a club that shares our vision of nurturing homegrown talent and building communities,” said Mutava.
“This sponsorship is more than just funding; it’s about creating hope, structure, and opportunity for the next generation of footballers. Football is a lifeline for thousands of young Kenyans who dream of making it to the big leagues, and through this renewed partnership, we are reinforcing our belief in the power of sport to transform lives.”
Newly elected Leopards chairman Boniface Ambani welcomed the extension, saying it came at the perfect time as the club gears up for the new season.
“This renewed support could not have come at a better time as we prepare for the new season. We are deeply grateful to Betika for their continued faith in our club, especially at a time when Kenyan football urgently needs structured investment,” Ambani said.
“Many teams across the country are brimming with talent but often lack the resources to thrive. Sustainable partnerships like this one are not just about supporting the top tier; they are about building a pipeline of stars from the village pitch to the national stadium. We hope this sets the pace for more stakeholders to step up and support the game at every level.”
Leopards’ first five fixtures after their clash with Sofapaka will see them visit Nairobi United on September 28, host Bandari on October 15, play Posta Rangers away on October 3, before KCB at home on October 19. With new arrivals, youth promotions, and renewed financial muscle, the club enters the new campaign brimming with optimism.
