Inside Shabana Red Ultras’ movement transforming matchday experience for fans

On Sunday, 11 January, as Shabana faced Gor Mahia at the Gusii Stadium, fans witnessed a sight that is quickly becoming a defining feature of the club’s home matches.

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As the game edged into its final minutes, red and white smoke filled the Shabana stands, creating a striking visual spectacle as supporters roared their team on.

But the moment did not end with the final whistle. After the match, Shabana players were presented with personalized banners bearing their names, positions, and heartfelt messages of appreciation.

That heartfelt gesture is rarely seen in the local game, and Mozzart Sport sought to understand the motivation behind it.

As it turns out, it was the work of a growing fan-driven movement known as Shabana Red Ultras.

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The group is on a mission to deliberately transform the club’s matchday atmosphere through organized support, visual displays, and fan engagement.

During the Gor Mahia clash, the Ultras unveiled tifos, banners, and smoke powders, injecting fresh energy and color into the stadium.

According to founder Ruth Viona Keraro, the initiative is about elevating the fan experience while strengthening the bond between supporters and players.

“On Sunday, we introduced tifos, banners, and smoke powders to further elevate the cheering atmosphere. Since this was our first outing, and we launched during the match against Gor Mahia, many fans were caught by surprise. Some even ran from the smoke, but overall, it was a positive and exciting experience,” Keraro explained.

The response, she says, has been overwhelmingly encouraging.

“We have already seen significant interest from fans who want to join us and help make this even better. Beyond the supporters, the players themselves have shown great excitement about the initiative, and the idea has generally been well-received,” she offered.

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Beyond creating a vibrant atmosphere, Shabana Red Ultras are also keen on recognizing individual contributions within the squad. Their first displays focused on players who have shown consistency or resilience through difficult periods.

“As a starting point, we chose to appreciate players who have been consistent for the team, as well as those who have been injured but remain key to the club,” Keraro noted.

“Among the consistent performers is Wycliffe Awiko, who stepped up during our center-back crisis. We also had plans to appreciate midfielders Kevin Omondi and Biron ‘Ngolo’ Otieno, who have been very solid, but we were limited by funds,” she revealed.

The group also honored talented forward Brian Michira, welcomed back captain George Onyango from injury, recognized Ezekiah Omuri, and unveiled a flag representing the entire team.

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For supporters eager to be part of the movement, joining is straightforward.

“Simply follow us on our social media platforms under Shabana Red Ultras. The joining fee is only KSh 200,” Keraro said.

Up next, the Glamour Boys will face Sofapaka on Saturday, 17 January, at the Gusii Stadium.