More than 100 teams are expected to take part in the inaugural Okeng’o Nyambane football tournament in Kisii and Nyamira counties.
The tournament is expected to start once the government gives a go-ahead for the resumption of football activities.
Tournament organisers Caleb Angwenyi and Osiemo Miruka said only clubs affiliated to the Football Kenya Federation will take part.
“We are working with newly-elected FKF officials in Kisii and Nyamira to make the tournament a success. The tournament will start from ward level,” said tournament chairman Miruka.
He said the tournament which will have competition for both women and men’s category will culminate in a final between Kisii and Nyamira counties.
Miruka and Angwenyi spoke at Getembe Primary School in Kisii town where they donated balls to four teams that are preparing for the tournament. Similar donations have been made to about 30 teams across Kisii County.
Angwenyi said he expects this to be the biggest tournaments in the two counties adding that scouts from various teams will be invited.
“We have enormous talent in this region but most of the players lack exposure at an early age,” said Angwenyi.
Angwenyi further asked teams to start preparing and registering for the tournament.
Gilbert Obengo, the Burungu FC captain welcomed the tournament, saying: “We have not played football since March. This tournament will help us prepare for the upcoming County League.”
Another player, Hesborn Otiso said most grassroot teams lack basic equipment like balls and kit and asked well-wishers to chip in.
Meanwhile, the officials noted that cross country events will be held at the constituency level.
“Since we are heading to the cross country season, we are planning to have events involving children, elderly people and elite athletes,” Miruka added.
