Governor Wavinya Cup third edition kicks off with 650 teams
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti kicks a ball during a launch of the 3rd edition of the Wavinya Cup at Kisooni Catholic church grounds in Mumbuni North Ward on Thursday. Photo/Gastone Valusi
The third edition of the Governor Wavinya Cup football tournament has kicked off at Kisooni Catholic Church grounds in Mumbuni North Ward, Machakos, with 650 teams from 40 wards set to participate.
This year’s competition has introduced tree planting as part of efforts to conserve the environment.
Speaking at the launch on Thursday, Governor Wavinya Ndeti, who was accompanied by her deputy Francis Mwangangi, said the tournament continued to create opportunities for talent scouting.
She cited the case of Mary Nthambi, who was recruited by Police Bullets FC after being spotted in the event.
She added that 12 other players had previously been recruited from past tournaments and now feature in clubs playing in the National Super League.
Governor Ndeti further announced that this year, outstanding players will be selected to form a county-based professional club to be supported by the Machakos County Government.
“We are coming up with a homegrown Machakos Football Club which we will nurture and fund,” she said.
The tournament will run until December 13, with the winning men’s and women’s teams each receiving Sh1 million.
Several matches were played on the opening day, including a curtain-raiser between Maisha Warriors FC and Mumbuni North Legends, with Maisha winning 2–0.
Kasinga Starlets edged Mumbuni Queens 2–1, while the County Executive team beat Chief Officers 1–0.
In the final match of the day, Katisaa FC drew with Mumbuni United before Mumbuni triumphed in penalty shootout.
All ward-level winners will receive Sh20,000 each.