Sofapaka CEO reveals why the club has moved its base to Mumias
Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 22.07.26. | 08:18
The relocation comes in the wake of Sofapaka's relegation from the FKF Premier League,
Sofapaka Chief Executive Officer James Situma has explained the club's decision to relocate its base from Nairobi to Mumias ahead of the 2026/27 season, describing the move as a long-term strategy aimed at rebuilding the club's identity, growing its fan base, and creating sustainable revenue streams.
Speaking in an interview with Mozzart Sport, the former Harambee Stars defender and Sofapaka captain revealed that the 2009 FKF Premier League champions will now call Mumias home as they begin life in the National Super League (NSL).
Situma, who was recently appointed the club's CEO, said the relocation was carefully considered after the club identified the need to establish a stronger connection with supporters while also addressing its financial challenges.
"We decided to relocate the team from Nairobi and take it to Mumias as a way to establish an identity and create a solid fan base. We noticed we were lacking in that area and decided to relocate as one way to build our fan base and generate a source of revenue for the club because that too has been a challenge for us," Situma said.
Since its formation in 2004, Sofapaka has been based in Nairobi despite drawing supporters from different parts of the country.
However, the club has struggled over the years to attract consistent matchday attendance, a challenge that has affected both the atmosphere at its home matches and its commercial growth.
The relocation comes in the wake of Sofapaka's relegation from the FKF Premier League, with the club hoping the move will mark the beginning of a new chapter as it seeks an immediate return to the top flight.
For a club that won the league title in its debut top-flight season in 2009 and established itself as one of Kenya's most competitive sides, recent campaigns have been marked by financial difficulties and declining fortunes on the pitch.
Limited fan turnout on matchdays and the absence of a strong home support have been among the factors contributing to the club's struggles.
By settling in Mumias, the former league champions hope to cultivate a loyal community of supporters, strengthen their commercial appeal, and create a genuine home advantage.
With preparations for the new NSL campaign already underway, Sofapaka will be aiming to turn Mumias into a fortress as they begin their quest to reclaim their place in the FKF Premier League at the earliest opportunity.
