Community leaders in Ademasajida Ward, Wajir County, have commended the Risa Super Cup football tournament for providing a constructive platform for young people during the long school holiday period.
The month-long tournament, sponsored by local professional Abdihakin Risa, brought together 16 teams from Ademasajida and neighbouring Habaswein wards, drawing large crowds throughout the knockout stages.
In Sunday’s final, Al Fatah FC defeated Zenit FC to lift the title, earning a cash prize of Sh230,000 while Zenit FC took home Sh115,000 as runners-up.
Local administrators, security officers and football officials who attended the final said the event provided a structured platform for young people to participate in positive activities and keep away from crime and drug abuse.
Ademasajida Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Mohamed Noor said the competition helped strengthen relations between security agencies and the community.
“The turnout throughout the tournament shows that sports remain an effective way to bring residents together,” Noor said.
“We appreciate the organizers for ensuring young people are constructively engaged during the long break,” he added.
Speaking during the prize-giving ceremony, Risa said the initiative was part of a broader effort to engage youth in positive activities.
“We want our young people to use their energy and talent in productive ways,” he said.
“I urge the youth to avoid drugs and crime and focus on education and sports development.”
He added that he would continue working with professionals and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to support talented players in the region.
Risa also appreciated the cooperation of security agencies and local administration in ensuring the tournament ran smoothly.
The Risa Super Cup continues to serve as a platform for nurturing grassroots football talent and strengthening community ties in Wajir County.
By Hamdi Buthul
