Trans Nzoia Governor Launches One-Month Football Tournament to Tap Grassroots Talent
Governor George Natembeya on Friday launched the Governor’s Cup, a month-long football tournament for boys and girls, at the Chepchoina Primary School grounds.
The tournament, which will see mouthwatering matches staged in all 25 wards across the county, aims to tap and nurture grassroots talent, according to Governor Natembeya. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to facilitating similar sporting events to open doors for talented athletes across the county.
“The objective of this tournament is to develop talent at the grassroots level,” Governor Natembeya said. “We want to provide platforms for young players to showcase their skills and be scouted by professional teams.”
The governor challenged young players participating in the tournament to remain focused on their careers. He highlighted the success of Adrian Kibet, a young player who is currently representing Kenya in the under-18 CECAFA games.
“I urge all of you to remain focused and disciplined,” Governor Natembeya said. “This sport can take you to great places, but it requires hard work and dedication.”
The governor also thanked all ward representatives in the county for their collaboration, which he said has enabled his administration to achieve its goals. He specifically praised their support for the Governor’s Cup, which is being organized by the Department of Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture and Tourism.
“The Governor’s Cup is a testament to the power of collaboration,” Governor Natembeya said. “When we work together, we can achieve great things.”
The tournament has attracted over 250 teams, with each ward fielding 8 men’s tepams and 4 women’s teams. Governor Natembeya expressed his hope that the tournament will provide opportunities for talented players to be scouted by professional clubs.
“This tournament is just the beginning,” Governor Natembeya said. “We are committed to developing two professional football teams, one for men and one for women, that will represent Trans Nzoia in local and international leagues.”
The governor also addressed concerns raised by some ward representatives about interference in county affairs by other elected leaders.
“I want to make it clear that votes are not obtained from the floor of institutions,” Governor Natembeya said. “They are earned from the people, and the people will hold those who attempt to obstruct them accountable.”
On the issue of teenage pregnancies, Governor Natembeya appealed to parents to take responsibility for their children’s education and upbringing. He reminded them that during school holidays, their rights as parents supersede the authority of institutions.
“Parents have a fundamental right to direct the education and upbringing of their children,” Governor Natembeya said. “I urge them to use this time to guide their children and help them make positive choices.”
The launch of the Governor’s Cup was marked by exciting matches. Sharon Nekesa and Halima Maselo led the Khalwenge Women team to a 2-0 victory over Chepchoina in the first half. In the men’s competition, Emmanuel Kiptoo and Joseph Lusweti scored goals for Mubere and Highlanders respectively, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
Governor Natembeya was accompanied to the launch by members of his cabinet, chief officers, and ward representatives.
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