AFC Leopards announces major event to honour players
By Faith Lagat, June 23, 2025AFC Leopards has officially unveiled plans for the second edition of its annual Player Awards Gala and Cultural Week, scheduled to run from July 21, 2025, to July 26, 2025, in Bungoma County.
The announcement was made during a colourful ceremony on June 23, 2025, led by U45 Unit Branch Chairperson Olympia Musonye, who described the upcoming event as a unique convergence of football, culture, and community pride.
“It will be a movement of culture, of pride, of unity, and of football excellence,” Musonye told fans and officials gathered for the launch.
Set to be held at Masinde Muliro Stadium and other venues across Bungoma, the week-long celebration will honour standout performers within the club while showcasing Kenya’s cultural diversity. Five coveted awards will be presented, including Player of the Season, Fans’ Player of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season, Fan of the Season, and Branch of the Season.
2024 Edition
The 2024 inaugural edition saw striker Victor Omune dominate the accolades, while Kaycie Odhiambo was crowned Fans’ Player of the Season.
The Executive Branch was also recognised for outstanding fan mobilisation and engagement.
Organisers say the 2025 edition will be even bigger, blending football excellence with cultural expression under the theme “Our Culture, Our Pride: Showcasing Kenya through Football and Cuisine.”
“AFC Leopards is more than just a football club—it is a cultural institution,” said Musonye. “From Kakamega to Kisumu, and Kwale to Mandera, Ingwe is part of our national story.”
The gala will feature exhibition matches, live performances, traditional dances, and food fairs that spotlight Kenya’s rich culinary and cultural heritage. Fans from all over the country—and the diaspora—are expected to attend, with Bungoma transforming into a hub of celebration and unity.
Organisers emphasised that the event is not just about trophies but about building bonds through sport and honouring the community spirit that defines AFC Leopards.
As anticipation mounts, the 2025 Player Awards Gala and Cultural Week is shaping up to be a landmark moment in Kenyan football—reinforcing AFC Leopards’ place not only as a sporting giant but also as a beacon of cultural pride and unity.