Shabana Football Club returned to the Kenyan Premier League (FKF Premier League) in June 2023, ending a 17-year absence from top-flight football. A Kisii-based businessman, Dogo Khan, established the club in 1980.
Shabana won the National Super League in 2023 after a 1-0 victory over Migori Youth at Gusii Stadium in the last match.
The club commands a large and ardent following, particularly in its Kisii backyard.
Born in 1950 in Bonyunyu Village, Nyamira County, Kenya, Dogo Khan showed his interest in business at an early age.
He lived with his mother after his father passed away before moving to Kendu Bay, where he settled with his uncle.
Dogo Khan attended Kisumu Primary School before joining Kisumu Boys High School.
Business & Foundation of Shabana FC
He ventured into business in the early 1970s, establishing Shabana Hardware and General Stores in Kisii.
Shabana FC’s origins can be traced back to a youth team initially known as Olympic.
Dogo Khan guided and sponsored the team, which later took the name Shabana from his hardware.
He was also involved in the running of its affairs, offering guidance to staff members.
He nurtured many legends in Kenyan football, including Henry Motego, the late Yabesh Nyandoro, and Mike Okoth.
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Dogo Khan Awards
Dogo Khan received a Head of State recommendation during the regime of the Late President Daniel Arap Moi.
Besides, Moi awarded him the Order of the Grand Warrior (O.G.W.).
Moi also gave him a cash prize of Ksh3 million as recognition of his accomplishments.
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History and Best Season
In their first season in 1985, Shabana finished 10th out of 18 and moved to eighth the following season.
Shabana finished 3rd in the league in 1987, behind giants Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.
Henry Motego was the league’s top scorer in 1987 with 21 goals.
The team represented Kenya in the Africa Champions Cup the following season.
Shabana met Kabwe Warriors of Zambia in the first round and beat them 1–0 in Kisii.
However, they lost 4–1 in the return leg in Kitwe, Zambia, on May 15, 1988, which led to their elimination.
In 2006, Shabana were relegated from the Kenya Premier League after 21 years.
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