By Ongaga Ongaga
The Tujiamini Cheza Dimba tournament heads to the Nyanza region this Sunday, at Raila Odinga Stadium.
SportPesa, who are the official sponsors promised a thrilling day of football, entertainment, and community celebration.
The Nyanza edition will feature six men’s teams and two women’s teams, all vying for top honours and the chance to represent the region at the national finals.
In the men’s category, Pool A comprises Awendo FC, Bondo United FC, and Shabana Youth FC, while Pool B brings together Mawego FC, Bobaracho FC, and Sindo Select FC.
The women’s category will see Masosa Starlets face Magina Starlets in a much-anticipated showdown expected to draw enthusiastic community support.
Winners in the men’s competition will receive KES 750,000, full team kits, and a three-year mentorship programme, while the top women’s side will walk away with a KES 50,000 one-off prize, recognising their outstanding performance.
Fans can also look forward to electrifying live performances from celebrated Nyanza artists Musa Jakadalla and Odongo Swagg, who will add energy and local flavour to the day’s festivities.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Deborah Maina, Public Relations and Advertising Executive at SportPesa, said:
“The Nyanza leg represents the heart of what Tujiamini Cheza Dimba stands for – using sport to inspire, unite, and empower communities.”
“At SportPesa, we believe that every young player deserves a chance to be seen and supported. Through Tujiamini, we are not only developing talent but also investing in the dreams and livelihoods of Kenya’s youth.”
Shabana Youth FC Coach, Mogire Kepher, expressed optimism ahead of the matches, saying:
“We are looking to win because victory would ease our financial challenges and allow us to focus more on training and developing our players.”
“We’re excited about this opportunity and dream of one day playing against our mother team, Shabana FC.”
The Nyanza tournament follows the successful Nairobi edition, held two weeks ago at Dandora Stadium, where Mseto FC from Dagoretti and Achievers FC from Ongata Rongai emerged champions.
Mseto FC lifted the men’s title after defeating Victor’s Faith Church of Kasarani 1–0 in a tense final, with Charles Baraza scoring the decisive goal in the 16th minute.
In the women’s final, Achievers FC edged hosts UEFA Despanol Queens 5–4 on penalties after a thrilling 2–2 draw in regulation time, clinching the regional crown in style.
Cheza Dimba continues to expand its footprint, having already toured Central, Western, North Rift, North Eastern, Eastern, Coast, and Nairobi regions.
The series is considered ab impactful grassroots sports initiative empowering young athletes, strengthening local communities, and celebrating Kenya’s enduring football spirit.