In a game-changing move for the sports apparel industry in Kenya, Singaporean sports kit manufacturer Mafro Sports has started expanding its presence locally after successfully taking over markets in East Africa.
On Sunday, the company unveiled new kits for FKF Premier League side Shabana FC in a colorful ceremony at the Gusii Stadium, marking a new chapter in their growing dominance.
Mafro’s influence, however, is not limited to the Kenyan market.The company has already made significant inroads into other parts of the African continent. In recent years, Mafro has kitted some of the continent’s biggest clubs, including Zambian giants Nkana FC and Ugandan powerhouse KCCA FC. With this growing portfolio, it’s clear that Mafro Sports has a long-term vision for dominance across the African continent, and their commitment to quality and innovation is positioning them to succeed in an increasingly competitive industry.
A Rising Power in the Kenyan Sports Scene
According to the regional marketing manager Shon Osimbo, Mafro’s strategy is simple: Partner with prominent sports teams and offer high-quality kits that give players the performance edge they need while appealing to fans with modern, eye-catching designs.
“When we courted AFC Leopards, we knew that we had began a great journey, having Shabana on board makes it even special,” She said.
“In 2023, we entered the Kenyan market, kitting the Trailblazers Volleyball team, the journey has been a success and this might have just helped us break the ice,” she added.
“Very few teams plying their trade in the local leagues have deals with reputable kit manufacturers and we want to have as many teams as possible and of course give them great value that will be unmatched, “ Osimbo stressed.
By signing deals with clubs like Shabana and partnering with AFC Leopards, Mafro has carved out a niche for itself as a serious competitor in the market.
Their focus on local clubs shows a level of dedication that speaks volumes about their commitment to developing the Kenyan sports scene. The unveiling of Shabana FC’s new kits is a prime example of how Mafro is embedding itself into the fabric of local football. Shabana, known for its passionate fanbase and rich football history, now wears Mafro’s kits, creating a sense of unity between the team and the local community. This move is not just about selling merchandise; it’s about building brand loyalty and integrating Mafro’s identity into the culture of the teams it works with.
A Look Beyond Kenya
Mafro’s African ExpansionWhile Mafro’s influence in Kenya is growing rapidly, the company’s expansion into other parts of Africa is equally impressive. Its partnership with Nkana FC, one of Zambia’s most storied football clubs, was a significant achievement that highlighted the company’s increasing prominence in Southern Africa. Nkana FC’s long-standing legacy in Zambian football makes this deal a powerful endorsement of Mafro’s products.
Furthermore, the deal with KCCA FC, Uganda’s leading football club, showcases Mafro’s growing dominance in East Africa. KCCA’s stature in Ugandan football provides Mafro with an opportunity to reach a larger fanbase, further solidifying its position as an African market leader.
Quality, Innovation, and Local Impact
One of Mafro’s key differentiators is its commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative sportswear that meets the needs of both players and fans. The company offers cutting-edge fabric technology designed to improve player performance by enhancing comfort, breathability, and durability. This attention to detail is an attractive proposition for football clubs in Kenya and beyond, where performance and quality are increasingly prioritized.
In February, Mafro appointed former Nairobi City Stars CEO Herbert Kunga as the country’s Marketing manager, a move that is definitely a game changer. Kunga has worked with different apparels and his inclusion into the Mafro team is seen as an asset and will help the company gain more inroads in Kenya.
