Veteran tactician Twahir Muhhidin hails community clubs role in ‘spicing up’ KPL

Former Harambee Stars head coach Twahir Muhiddin has praised the impact of Kenya’s leading community clubs - Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards, and Shabana FC - in revitalizing the FKF Premier League.

Muhiddin noted that the trio has not only intensified competition but also played a key role in bringing fans back to stadiums, describing their efforts as a model worth emulating across lower-tier leagues.

“That is a very vital point, and I want to state that I am very happy with our community clubs for what they are doing.

AFC Leopards, Gor Mahia, and Shabana have managed to bring fans back to our stadiums. This is a noble gesture that should be emulated by other clubs in the NSL and in FKF Division One and Two,” he said.

He urged other communities to invest in building strong clubs that can enhance competitiveness and deepen fan engagement across the football pyramid.

Currently, Gor Mahia sit top of the 18-team table with 57 points, just two ahead of AFC Leopards, while Shabana occupy fifth place with 43 points -underscoring their influence both on and off the pitch.

Muhiddin emphasized that community-driven clubs are central to the identity of Kenyan football, fueling passion, rivalry, and long-term growth.

“It is the trademark of Kenyan football to see community clubs like Gor, Leopards, and Shabana competing at the top level. This injects hope, passion, and healthy rivalry for the future of the game.”

Gor Mahia are chasing a record-extending 22nd league title, while AFC Leopards are aiming for their first since 1998 - their 13th overall - which would see them draw level with Tusker FC as the second most successful club in the country.