Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has unveiled a groundbreaking football tournament, the "Governor Minji Minji Cup," set to engage 200 clubs in a spirited competition for a cash prize of Sh1 million for the victorious team.

The tournament, themed "Nurturing Talent For Livelihood," is scheduled to commence on October 1st and culminate with the final match on December 10th later this year.


In a bid to harness the talents of the youth, Governor Waiguru emphasized that approximately 5,000 participants from various football clubs would partake in the tournament, competing at the ward and county levels.

"The county government is committed to youth empowerment through sports, which not only brings the youth together but also helps them realize their full potential. In today's world, football is big business, and there is money in the game," Governor Waiguru affirmed.

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The rewarding tournament structure ensures that the second-place team walks away with Sh750,000, the third-place team with Sh500,000, the fourth place with Sh350,000, and the fifth place with Sh200,000.

Additionally, top-performing teams at the ward level will also receive cash incentives.

Governor Waiguru emphasized the significance of gender inclusivity in sports, noting that ten teams from each ward would comprise eight men's clubs and two women's clubs, further showcasing Kirinyaga's commitment to promoting women in traditionally male-dominated sports.

"During this tournament, we shall be scouting for the best players who will eventually form a County team that will represent us in competitions such as the Kenya Youth Inter-county Sports Association (KYISA) games," Governor Waiguru revealed.


Highlighting the immense potential within Kirinyaga, the Council of Governors (CoG) Chair expressed her belief that the county could produce football stars of international acclaim.

"I believe among all these players we can produce our own Michael Olunga or Victor Wanyama," she added.


Governor Waiguru further divulged that plans to upgrade the General Kassam playfield in Kianyaga into a modern stadium were in motion, thanks to the support of President William Ruto.

"The stadium will provide our youth with a conducive environment to practice and hold sports activities," she affirmed.

Underlining her administration's continuous support for sports development, the Governor stated that sports teams would receive various essentials, including uniforms, boots, and footballs, alongside the cash rewards.

"As we begin this tournament, I wish every team the best of luck as they put their best foot forward. I appeal to you to engage in fair competition and most importantly remember: the tournament is not just about winning medals but also about challenging oneself, pushing hard through the pain, and coming out stronger at the other end," Governor Waiguru concluded, inspiring a spirit of healthy competition and personal growth within the youth of Kirinyaga County.