2024 Kamukunji Peace Tournament kicks off with 48 teams competing

The Kamukunji Peace Tournament 2024 officially kicked off on Saturday at the PCEA Center ground in Airbase Ward. The tournament will run for a month and features 48 teams, with 32 men's teams and 16 women's teams participating.

The event sponsored by the office of the Kamukunji Member of Parliament aims to nurture talent and engage youth from Kamukunji's five wards and surrounding areas.

The games will be played on various grounds within the constituency and are expected to attract hundreds of spectators. The tournament also seeks to promote the multicultural diversity of Kamukunji.

Team Gravo player dribbles past his opponent from Wenyeji Youth at the first game of the Kamukunji Peace Tournament. (Abdirahman Khalif)

Idah Munene, the manager of the Kamukunji Constituency, stated that the final game will be played on October 4. She expressed her satisfaction with the tournament and hoped that all participants would have a good experience.

"We are happy to hold the Kamukunji Peace Tournament 2024. The tournament started today and will end on October 4. We wish all the players the best," Idah said.

The first match was played between Wenyeji Youth from Majengo Pumwani Ward and Team Gravo from Eastleigh North, drawing a large crowd of spectators. Wenyeji Youth won the match 2-0.

Daniel Kimeu, head coach of Wenyeji Youth, expressed his appreciation for the improvements made in this year's tournament, particularly noting the better quality of the jerseys. He suggested that such tournaments should be held more frequently, as they bring young people together.

"The jerseys are of good quality, not like last time. We would like this kind of tournament to be held monthly if possible, as it brings the youth together," said Daniel.

Wenyeji youth players celebrate after scoring the first goal of the Kamukunji Peace Tournament. (Abdirahman Khalif)

Abdullahi Mohamed, head coach of Team Gravo, highlighted the importance of the tournament in promoting unity and helping youth avoid illegal activities, including drug abuse.

"This tournament helps reduce drug abuse among the youth and keeps them from roaming or engaging in theft," Abdullahi said.

Yassin Avoga, captain of last year's winning team, expressed his excitement at participating again and hoped to retain the title.

All teams in the tournament will be provided with jerseys, balls, and other essential equipment to ensure they are well-prepared for the games.