Around 3,000 youth from Samburu County have gathered in Maralal town for a tournament aimed at promoting peace, nurturing talent, and encouraging development.
The event, dubbed the Governor’s Cup, has brought together young people from 15 wards, forming 69 teams that will compete in various sports disciplines over four days.
Deputy Governor Gabriel Lenengwesi stated that the tournament aims to foster unity, promote talent, and combat issues such as drug abuse, female genital mutilation (FGM), and youth empowerment.
“The four themes we have chosen for this event are not only essential for us but also provide a strong foundation for our generation,” Lenengwesi said.
He further emphasized, “Through peace, we aim to foster unity and understanding among different communities in the region. We also want to identify the next sports stars and create awareness against FGM and substance abuse among our youth.”
Eveline Lentaano, the County Executive Committee Member in charge of Sports and Youth Affairs, announced that the overall winners, as well as the first and second runners-up, will receive trophies, cash prizes, jerseys, and certificates.
Additionally, the tournament will recognize the best players and the most disciplined participants at the conclusion of the event, which began on April 16 and will end on April 20.
“Since we are bringing together teams from Angata Nanyokie, Maralal, Nachola, Elbara, Wamba North, Wamba West, Suguta, Waso, Wamba East, Nyiro, Loosuk, Poro, Ndoto, and Baawa wards, we will provide transportation, allowances, and accommodation for all participants,” she said.
Competing sports include football, netball, basketball, volleyball, darts, pool table games, and athletics. There will be 16 women’s football teams, 21 men’s football teams, and 16 volleyball teams each for both men and women.
“This tournament demonstrates that we are on the right track. We now need larger events that will bring together other regions in Northern Kenya,” said Peter Lenchodor, the County Sports and Youth Affairs Chief Executive Officer.
Stephen Lenamarle, the Speaker of the Samburu County Assembly, who attended the tournament on its first day, remarked that the peace agenda of this tournament is crucial as the county enjoys stable peace after years of sporadic cattle raids and bandit attacks.
“The insecurity in Samburu has prompted us, the political leaders, to adopt various approaches to promote peace, love, and unity among the locals,” Lenamarle stated.
