Kisii County Governor James Ongwae has pledged to support newly promoted Shabana FC as it returns to top-flight football.

After a 10-year absence from the premier league, Shabana FC earned promotion after winning 2-0 against Finlays Horticulture in a match played at the Gusii Stadium.

Ongwae, himself a former footballer, said his government was prepared to support the club in its quest to regain the lost glory. He said his government will establish grassroots structures to tap talent and feed Shabana FC.

“First I congratulate Shabana FC for winning promotion to the Kenya Premier League. They have fulfilled my dream as Governor because we embarked on renovation of the Gusii Stadium with them in mind. We shall finalize the construction of a perimeter wall in a month to boost their gate collections,” said the Governor.

He noted that the team lost a lot of revenue in gate collections due to lack of a proper fence around the Gusii Stadium, an issue his government was addressing.

“We shall finalize the construction of three stands including a VIP pavilion to accommodate fans. In intend to meet the executive committee of Shabana FC to discuss the way forward because the revival of this club will have a positive impact on the local economy besides helping nurture talent,” he added.