Ugandan football club Kitara secured a financial boost of approximately UGX 40 million following their friendly match against Kenya’s Gor Mahia on January 2, 2025.
The funds came from a KES 3 million donation jointly contributed by Kenyan President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Ruto provided KES 2 million, approximately UGX 56 million, while Raila added KES 1 million, approximately UGX 28 million. The donation was evenly split, with Kitara FC receiving KES 1.5 million, approximately UGX 40 million.
Speaking at the newly inaugurated Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium in Siaya County, Ruto praised the teams’ efforts. “Baba [Raila] has given KES 1 million, and I have given KES 2 million. These two teams will share because they played very well,” Ruto stated.
The match which Gor Mahia won on penalties was also attended by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni who lauded the initiative as a step toward strengthening regional unity and talent exchange.
The newly inaugurated 20,000-seater stadium is expected to host multinational sports competitions in the future.
Ruto assured attendees that the Kenyan government would oversee the completion of the stadium’s construction.
