Security heightened for Mashemeji Derby
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Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 06.12.25. | 10:37
A lineup of family-friendly activities is planned ahead of the derby, including performances by several artists
Security agencies have put in place extensive measures to ensure a safe and incident-free Mashemeji Derby, with approximately 300 police officers set to be deployed for Sunday’s clash at the Nyayo National Stadium.
Gor Mahia will host their arch-rivals, AFC Leopards, in a fixture that was rescheduled by a week due to the unavailability of the venue.
A capacity crowd is expected, with the 3 pm kickoff to be preceded by a women’s derby between Gor Mahia Queens and AFC Leopards Queens starting at 11:30 am.
Security has historically been a major concern during this high-profile FKF Premier League fixture. This has often resulted in property damage and injuries to those in attendance.
This time, organisers say they have strengthened preparations, with more than 300 police officers and 130 stewards assigned to oversee the event.
Gor Mahia Secretary General Nick Arum confirmed that all stakeholders have been engaged to ensure safety before, during, and after the match.
“After we paid to use the facility, Sports Kenya insisted that we conduct three pre-event meetings before Sunday to firm up match hosting arrangements. We held one meeting on Tuesday, and we are set to hold another on Friday and Saturday,” Arum told the Nation.
“The meeting involved Sports Kenya, AFC Leopards, the Football Kenya Federation, the police, and other stakeholders,” he added.
Arum further detailed the security plan, noting that officers from various units of the National Police Service will be deployed.
“There will be over 300 police officers at the match on Sunday. The officers will be drawn from the regular police, the Administration Police, the General Service Unit, and the traffic department,” he said.
He added that Gor Mahia will provide 100 stewards, while AFC Leopards will deploy 30.
A lineup of family-friendly activities is planned ahead of the derby, including performances by several artists. Gates will open at 9am.
“We want fans to enjoy a performance by Musa Jakadala and also watch the curtain-raiser match between Gor Mahia Queens and AFC Leopards Queens, which will kick off at 11:30 am,” Arum said.
On the pitch, Gor Mahia currently top the table with 19 points after nine matches. Leopards trail them by nine points from the same number of games.
Gor Mahia’s buildup to the derby suffered a brief scare earlier this week when five players were involved in two separate accidents. All five have since been cleared to resume training and are available for selection.
Last season, both derby encounters ended in goalless draws.
