The second edition of Elgeyo Marakwet’s “Gavana Wa Raia” football tournament is headed for a homestretch this Sunday after four teams secured slots for the final competition.
On Wednesday, Kapcherop Riders FC from Sengwer Ward qualified for the finals after beating Chemosong FC from Lelan Ward by 3-2 goals to represent Marakwet West Sub County.
The finals will be held at Iten on Sunday to determine the winner of Sh1 million. County Governor Wisley Rotich sponsors the tournament.
Who are the “Gavana Wa Raia” defending champions?
This year’s tournament will produce a new winner after Emkew FC failed to qualify for the finals.
Last year, Emkew defeated Kimuron FC from Keiyo North to lift the inaugural Governor’s Cup.
The Kapcherop Riders now join Kipsaina FC from Keiyo South, Keiyo North’s Kipsoen FC, and Kapchebau FC, which will be representing Marakwet East.
The tournament featured 300 teams, providing a platform for talented youth from all 20 Wards to showcase their exceptional football skills.
Kipsoen FC from Kamariny sailed to the finals after dismissing Kibendo FC from Emsoo 2-1 to represent Keiyo North.
Kapchebau FC from Embobut-Embolot won against Embomir FC from Endo Ward by two goals to win in Marakwet East. Last year’s finalists, Masete FC from Embobut-Embolot Ward, lost in the preliminaries.
Kipsaina FC won the bragging rights after beating Kiebor FC in a fierce battle, which ended in a penalty shoot-out.
Arap Uria, Gogo Small, and Tula Chemoget will lead a team of local content creators in entertainment during the Sunday contest.
Commentary will be done by local youth led by ‘Commentator’ Collo. Others will be drawn from the sub-counties (each from Sub County).
Who will attend finals of “Gavana Wa Raia” football tournament?
According to the director of Governor’s Press, Kibiwott Koross, Iten Town will be a bee hive of activities during the day with various dignitaries attending the event
Among the guests expected to grace the occasion include Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen as well as Nairobi Governor Johnson Arthur Sakaja.
Governors Susan Kihika (Nakuru), Jonathan Bii (Uasin Gishu), Stephen Sang, (Nandi) Simon Kachapin (West Pokot) and Baringo’s Benjamin Cheboi among other local politicians will also be in attendance.
We will also be having a curtain raiser game between the County Executive and the County assembly teams,” Koross said.
