The iconic AFC Leopards, fondly nicknamed “Ingwe” (Luhya for leopard), celebrates a milestone today – 60 years of thrilling Kenyan football. But amidst the birthday cake and roars from the stands, a few thorns prick the celebratory mood.
For a club with such a rich legacy, it’s mind-boggling that Ingwe still calls Nyayo National Stadium, a venue also known for hosting religious crusades, their permanent home. Sharing the pitch with miracles might add a touch of the extraordinary, but a dedicated stadium would be a roar-some gift for the 60th year. Imagine turning 60 and still borrowing furniture!
While their arch-rivals Gor Mahia can boast a trophy cabinet overflowing with continental silverware, Leopards are yet to conquer Africa. The age difference between the club and their current chairman, Dan Shikanda, highlights this – Ingwe, the elder statesman, still awaits its continental moment.
Off-field challenges continue to cast a shadow. Allegations of mismanaged funds, delayed salaries for local players and even outstanding dues to foreign players leading to FIFA bans paint a concerning picture.
Here’s where things get interesting. Despite these hurdles, Ingwe boasts a passionate fanbase. This year alone, their stands haven’t been as empty as their trophy cabinet and it’s directly reflected in their performance. They’ve dominated the league so far, with only a recent loss to Tusker FC denting their perfect record.
Perhaps this milestone year can be a turning point. Addressing financial issues and emulating the success of other clubs in areas like player management and fan experience could propel Ingwe to even greater heights.
Happy Birthday, Ingwe! May the coming years be filled with not just roaring victories on the pitch, but also a roar of a different kind – the roar of a financially secure club with a permanent home, finally ready to pounce on continental glory.
