Women footballers celebrate inclusion in Kamukunji Peace Tournament

Hundreds of people attended the first women's games of the Kamukunji Peace Tournament, marking a significant moment for women footballers in the area. The women expressed their gratitude for being included in this year's competition, noting that it was a positive step by the organisers. This inclusion, they said, was a move towards giving women more opportunities in local sports.

Speaking to The Eastleigh Voice, Fauzia Kaunjeri, the captain of Moreno FC, was pleased that women were not overlooked in this year's tournament. She highlighted the importance of these activities in engaging young women, keeping them occupied, and steering them away from potentially harmful activities.

Fauzia said that tournaments like this could help girls avoid early marriages and other challenges common in their neighbourhood.

"We feel happy that we were not forgotten, and we are glad that we are part of this tournament," she said.

Her comments were echoed by Philomena Syombua, the captain of Fearless FC, who also expressed her gratitude for the opportunity. She noted that this year, more teams were involved, especially young women's teams, creating a bigger impact.

Philomena Syombua, the captain of Fearless FC. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

"Such tournaments help us escape a lot of things in our neighbourhood, and it's good to see more teams taking part this time," Philomena remarked.

She said these competitions provide a safe space for young women to focus on their passion for football, rather than getting caught up in negative influences.

The games also drew a significant number of female spectators. Many came to cheer for their favourite teams, showing that women's football is gaining attention in the community.

Among the fans was Daisy Kemunto, who brought her child along, as she did not want to miss the match. She said she was a committed fan of women's football and wanted to support the women competing in the tournament.

"I am a die-hard fan of women's football. I came here early today with my child because I had to make a sacrifice to come and watch this game," Daisy said.

She observed that women are often left out of such events, but was pleased to see that this year's tournament was different.

Fauzia Kaunjeri, the captain of Moreno FC. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

Another fan, Linet Mweni, arrived at the field at 8 am to secure a good spot to watch the games uninterrupted. She said that these matches give women an opportunity to showcase their talent and potentially get noticed as rising stars in the sport.

"I am happy to see ladies taking part in this tournament because it helps some of them fight things like early marriages and depression. I'm also happy that my team won," Linet said.

Her team's victory was part of the excitement of the day, as Moreno FC defeated Fearless FC 2-0 in the first game.

The event was also an economic boost for local vendors.

Jane Kavuga, who came to sell boiled maize to spectators, quickly sold out her stock. By halftime in the first match, most of her maize was gone. Jane considered going home to boil more and return for more sales.

"I'm happy because this tournament has helped me sell all my stock. They ate all the maize, and I almost went back home to prepare more," Jane said.