3K FC set sights on transforming Embu’s football ambitions into a top-flight reality

3K FC are preparing to turn their remarkable journey from the lower divisions into a top-flight reality when they make their SportPesa League debut next season.

The Embu-based club earned automatic promotion after finishing second in the 2025/26 National Super League with 77 points. However, head coach Nicodemus Omasete says the club's ambitions go well beyond simply avoiding relegation in their first season among Kenya's elite.

A strong sense of identity has been central to 3K's rise. The club's name reflects the three K-named areas that formed its original base in Nginda Ward.

Known as the “Home of Stars”, 3K represents a cluster of communities in Embu North Sub-county, including Kagumori, Kathangari, Kibugu, Kathuniri, Kiriari and Kairuri.

What started as a grassroots project has grown into a club with support extending beyond Embu, attracting players, fans and admirers from different parts of Kenya and abroad. Omasete believes that connection with the community will remain an important part of the club's identity as they step into the top flight.

“We already have a good team,” Omasete said, explaining the decision not to make sweeping changes to the squad that secured promotion. The coach intends to retain 21 members of the promotion-winning side while bringing in nine new players to create a 30-man squad.

He said recruitment will be driven by quality and the ability to strengthen the team rather than a player's reputation or previous division. “We don’t believe in releasing players. We want to add players who can give us depth,” Omasete said.

The strategy is designed to maintain the understanding and team chemistry that helped 3K navigate a demanding NSL campaign while introducing the experience needed to compete at the highest level.

Captain Daniel “Dante” Wabwire represents that continuity. The central defender has spent more than four seasons with 3K, progressing with the club from Division Two, and has committed his future to the team ahead of their Premier League challenge.

“I have been here for more than four seasons,” Wabwire said.

The defender played a crucial role in last season's promotion campaign, scoring four goals as 3K recorded the NSL's strongest defensive record, keeping 17 clean sheets.

For Wabwire, the move into the Premier League represents more than a personal milestone. It is the culmination of a journey shared by the players and supporters who have witnessed 3K's progress through the lower divisions.

“We have come a long way from Division Two. Now we want to show what 3K can do at the highest level,” he said.

Omasete is also looking beyond the immediate excitement surrounding promotion. His long-term objective is to establish 3K as an influential force in Kenyan football.

“In the long term, we want to make 3K the benchmark of football in Kenya. We want to dominate the Kenyan top-flight leagues,” he said.

The coach also intends to preserve the attacking philosophy that helped transform the team's fortunes after he took charge midway through last season.

During his initial spell as interim coach, Omasete guided 3K through a remarkable run of six consecutive victories, scoring 22 goals while conceding just once. His impressive start eventually led to his appointment being made permanent.

“We want to allow players the freedom to express themselves, be creative and enjoy themselves,” he said.

That attacking approach has continued into pre-season. 3K recorded a 3-2 victory over Posta Rangers before holding AFC Leopards to a 1-1 draw.

Wabwire believes such fixtures are providing the squad with valuable exposure to the intensity of top-flight opposition while also helping new signings adapt to the club's playing environment.

“The new players are excited to experience what it means to play at Moi Stadium,” he said.

The captain has also urged the Embu community to embrace the club's historic promotion by turning out in large numbers when the new league campaign begins.

“Our fans have always been our 12th man. We need them with us now more than ever,” Wabwire said.

Omasete also acknowledged the role supporters played throughout the promotion campaign, encouraging them to savour the achievement while recognising the greater challenge that awaits.

“You motivated us from the beginning and through the season. Now enjoy this moment and celebrate with the team. You deserve this,” he said.