Pioneer FC has emerged victorious at the Second Edition of the Cheza Dimba North Rift Tournament after edging out Eldoret Warriors in a hard-fought tournament held at the Huruma Grounds in Eldoret.
The event, held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, was part of SportPesa’s Tujiamini initiative and brought together six male teams and two women’s teams in a vibrant display of grassroots football, community development, and local talent.
Pioneer FC’s victory earned them a lucrative three-year sponsorship deal worth Sh750,000, along with full home and away kits, to be renewed annually.
Speaking after the victory, Pioneer FC Captain Jeff Ochieng expressed his gratitude to the sponsors, noting the impact the tournament would have on the team’s growth. “I thank SportPesa for bringing this tournament,” he said. “This prize money will significantly help us with visiting and facilitating our players.”
On his part, Team Manager Jesse Mbugua underscored the tournament’s community impact, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by young people in the area.
“We are grateful to our enthusiasts who got here out in large numbers. We only had one concept in mind – to win this match. In Huruma, where crime fees are excessive amongst young people, soccer gives a getaway course for younger people, keeping them away from criminal activities.”
On the other hand, Coach Kerry Omondi highlighted the transformative power of sports, noting that “the game enables children to abandon drugs and eliminates idleness from their minds. Football allows young people to distance themselves from many negative influences.”
In the girls’ category, Psalms 105 trounced Kapenguria Queens to clinch the championship title, walking away with Sh50,000 in prize money and an entire set of team kit.
Willis Ojwang, SportPesa’s Public Relations and Advertising Manager, praised Pioneer FC’s journey from the group stages to the final, highlighting their unwavering fighting spirit and the strong support they received from the community.
“The massive turnout of lovers from morning to evening verified genuine ownership of the game and exhibited the community-pushed nature of this initiative.”
The Cheza Dimba tournament, under SportPesa’s Tujiamini initiative, continues to champion grassroots sports development, talent identification, and community empowerment across Kenya—providing a platform for talented young people to showcase their skills while promoting positive social change.
By Ian Chepkuto
