From a 20-Cent
Soccer Ball
To a movement that has touched over 4 million lives. This is the story of hope, resilience, and the power of community.
A Boy, A Ball, A Dream
In 2004, a young man named Kennedy Odede did something extraordinary with 20 cents — all the money he had. Instead of buying food, he bought a worn soccer ball in Kibera, Africa's largest urban slum.
That simple act sparked a revolution. Kennedy gathered the youth of Kibera around that ball, giving them not just a game to play, but hope, purpose, and community. What started as street football became SHOFCO — Shining Hope for Communities.
Today, SHOFCO FC carries forward that founding spirit: using football as a vehicle for transformation, dignity, and dreams.
That soccer ball was more than rubber and stitches. It was hope. It was a statement that we matter, that our dreams matter.
What One Soccer Ball Started
From the Streets to the Pitch
The 20-Cent Revolution
Kennedy Odede buys a worn soccer ball for 20 cents in Kibera, sparking SHOFCO - Shining Hope for Communities.
SHOFCO FC Founded
The football club is formally established, giving Kibera youth a structured path to pursue their dreams.
Youth Academy Launch
The club establishes a comprehensive youth development program, combining football training with education.
First Major Trophy
SHOFCO FC wins the regional championship, proving that champions can come from anywhere.
Kenya Premier League
The club gains admission to the KPL, marking a historic milestone for community football.
The Future is Now
With new training facilities and expanded programs, SHOFCO FC continues to build champions and change lives.
The SHOFCO Way
More than a club, we are a movement. These values guide everything we do.
Hope
Every child deserves to dream. We light the spark of possibility.
Community
We rise together. Football binds us, purpose unites us.
Dignity
Every person has inherent worth. We treat all with respect.
Courage
Champions are made, not born. We dare to dream big.
Where Champions Play
SHOFCO FC plays home matches at Nyayo National Stadium, one of Kenya's premier football venues. The stadium provides an incredible atmosphere for our supporters and an inspiring stage for our players.
But our true home will always be the dusty streets of Kibera, where it all began. That spirit — of making something from nothing, of finding joy in the game — lives in every match we play.
Be Part of the Story
From a 20-cent soccer ball to millions of lives touched. Join us in building the next chapter of this incredible journey.