In efforts to nurture sporting talents among the youth, the Kitui County Government through the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Youth, ICT, Sports and Social Services, is set to kick off the first edition of Governor’s Cup
The three-day event running from the 21st to the 23rd of this month will be held at Ithookwe Stadium and is expected to draw thousands of sports across the county and the country as well.
The Kitui County Governor’s Cup First Edition kicked off early this year in February, where 684 drawn from the village were set to battle.
Upon progressing to the sub-county level, the final is set to host 16 opponent teams, being 8 for men and 8 for ladies.
During this occasion the winner for men will be awarded Ksh. 500,000 and for ladies Ksh. 300,000 in addition to trophies, among other rewards and recognition of the best players.
Speaking today during a press briefing ahead of the event, Kitui County Minister for Culture, Youth, ICT and Sports Madam Phoebe Mutemi noted that sports officials, coaches shall be present to scout young talents as well as sign them.
The minister also noted that the youth, who have been playing in villages without anyone watching, will have the opportunity to showcase their talent to the whole country.
“The finals will also provide economic opportunities for local youth. Vendors, boda boda operators, photographers and content creators around Ithookwe are expected to benefit from the crowds that will attend,” she further noted.
The Kitui county Ministry for Culture, Gender, Youth, ICT, Sports and Social Services boss further confirmed that besides football, there will be side activities to showcase youth talent in music, dance and digital skills during the finals.
With 684 teams having started the journey in February, the 16 teams now headed to Ithookwe represent the best of Kitui’s grassroots football. The county now turns its focus to crowning the first ever Governor’s Cup champions at the end of this month.
By Peter Kasimu and Patrick Musyoka
