Arati vows to back Shabana's push for continental football

Speaking during the unveiling of Shabana FC's newly constituted technical bench at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, Arati reaffirmed his commitment to helping transform the club into one of Kenya's football powerhouses.

The event was attended by the club's top leadership, including chairman Jared Nivaton, as Shabana officially unveiled its new coaching team led by Egyptian tactician Ahmed Fathi Abdalla Ibrahim.

Addressing the media, Arati assured the club's supporters that he would fully back the team's ambitions both on and off the pitch.

"I am very happy today as we unveil this new team. As the patron of this club, I will give every support needed," Arati said.

The governor said his priority is to ensure Shabana becomes a force not only in Kenyan football but also on the continental stage.

"I have taken it upon myself to fill every gap to make sure we play football at the continental level. I have never been much of a football fan, but because of this club I will become one," he added.

Arati also revealed that the club is actively pursuing additional sponsorships to strengthen its financial base and support its long-term ambitions.

"We are looking at how we can bring more sponsors on board to support the club," he said.

The unveiling marked the beginning of a new era for Shabana, with Ahmed Fathi Abdalla Ibrahim taking over as head coach for the 2026/27 season.

He will be assisted by Hesbon Obinge as First Assistant Coach and Andrea Ongwae as Second Assistant Coach. The technical team also includes Rwandan specialist Hatagekimana Corneille as Strength and Conditioning Coach, while David Juma has been appointed Goalkeeping Coach.

The appointments underline Shabana's determination to strengthen its technical department as the club targets greater success in the upcoming season.