National Super League (NSL) side Darajani Gogo FC have received a significant financial boost as they gear up for the remainder of the season and set their sights on a potential promotion to the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) next season. The Kibera-based club has secured over KSh. 5 million in funding along with other crucial forms of support from sponsors and well-wishers.
During a fundraising gala held at Real Towers Annex in Nairobi, the club’s patron and shirt sponsor, Dr. Ahmed Kalebi, highlighted the financial demands of running a football club, noting that their annual expenditure is at least KSh. 12 million. Kalebi emphasized the importance of sustained partnerships, not just for financial stability but also for the broader community impact of such clubs.
“We usually say that this is not just a sponsorship; it is a partnership to better our community,” Kalebi stated, underlining the broader significance of supporting local clubs beyond the football pitch.
Among the key contributors to Darajani Gogo’s campaign is the Kenya Red Cross, which presented a KSh. 2 million cheque to the club and donated a bus to aid in logistical operations. Speaking during the event, Kenya Red Cross Secretary General Dr. Ahmed Idris acknowledged the club’s positive impact and reaffirmed their commitment to future partnerships.
“It is not that we have a lot of resources, but we believe in your cause. We look forward to having more of this partnership in the future,” Idris remarked.
Other notable sponsors include Freedom Airlines, which has pledged KSh. 1.5 million over the next year, while Emergency Medical Services has committed to providing an ambulance for the club’s home matches. This support is expected to ease some of the financial strain and enhance the team’s operations.
Last year, Darajani Gogo successfully raised KSh. 6.7 million, out of which KSh. 4.2 million has already been spent. The latest fundraising efforts indicate growing support for the club as they continue their quest for a strong league finish.
Currently sitting fourth in the NSL standings with 33 points, Darajani Gogo are trailing league leaders Nairobi United by eight points. With renewed financial backing and logistical support, the team is hopeful that they can close the gap and secure a top spot, earning a chance to compete in the top-tier Kenyan Premier League next season.
