By SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT 

Embu’s Royal Queens and Marsabit’s Dakabaricha are among eight teams to secure Safaricom Chapa Dimba Eastern semifinal slots. 

The eight teams booked their places in tomorrow’s semifinals after winning their respective quarterfinal knockout matches played at Kairuri, Nembure, Kamiu and Embu Showground.

The hosts, Royal Queens Academy from Embu County, and Marsabit’s Dakabaricha Secondary School are among the eight teams that have booked their places in the Safaricom Chapa Dimba Eastern Regional semifinals, set for tomorrow, Saturday, at Moi Stadium in Embu.

The eight teams include Royal Queens Academy (Embu), Dakabaricha Secondary School (Marsabit), AIC Sultan Queens (Makueni), and MCF Starlets (Machakos) in the girls’ category, as well as Mbuthani Secondary School (Makueni), Golden Football Academy (Machakos), MAFA Academy (Isiolo), and SMPI Academy (Kitui) in the boys’ category.

The teams secured their semifinal berths after winning their respective quarterfinal knockout matches played at Kairuri, Nembure, Kamiu, and Embu Showground.

In the girls’ matches, Royal Queens Academy advanced after seeing off regional defending champions Syomunyu Queens from Kitui 2-0 in a tightly contested encounter at Kairuri Grounds. Dakabaricha Secondary School booked their place in the semifinals after edging Bridge Starlets from Isiolo 2-1.

AIC Sultan Queens from Makueni advanced after thrashing Mugona Girls from Tharaka Nithi 5-1, while MCF Starlets secured their spot after edging Meru’s Akuune Queens 1-0.

“It was a tough match against the regional defending champions, but we stuck to our game plan to secure the win. We made sure we got an early goal to reduce the pressure, which worked to our advantage. We are taking every game one at a time, and we hope to keep this trophy here in Embu. We are ready for tomorrow, and I call upon our fans to come out in large numbers and cheer us on,” said Muka Protus, Head Coach, Royal Queens Academy.

In the boys’ category, hosts Black Cats Football Academy narrowly fell to Makueni’s Mbuthani Secondary School 2-1, with Mbuthani booking an early semifinal slot.

Golden Football Academy slid into the semis after edging Marsabit’s Abdary FC 3-2 on penalties following a thrilling 4-4 draw in regular time. In another tightly contested encounter, MAFA Academy held their nerve from the spot, defeating Kajiunduthi High School from Tharaka Nithi 4-2 on penalties after the match ended 1-1 in regular time.

Meanwhile, SPMI Academy secured the final boys’ semifinal slot after beating Mikinduri Rock-Star FC 2-1.

“It has been our wish to reach this level, and beating the hosts in the knockouts, a very critical stage, is not something we take for granted. Our aim is to lift the trophy as we proceed to the semifinals set for tomorrow,” said Geoffrey Mwendwa, Head Coach, Mbuthani Secondary School.

Today’s matches were followed by players’ and coaches’ clinics at Moi Stadium, where participants were taken through financial literacy, data privacy, mental health, and AI-powered vests, among other topics.

Tomorrow’s action will see AIC Sultan Queens take on MCF Starlets in the first girls’ semifinal, before hosts Royal Queens Academy face Marsabit’s Dakabaricha Secondary School in the second girls’ encounter.

In the boys’ category, Golden Football Academy will open the semifinals against SPMI Academy before MAFA Academy faces Makueni’s Mbuthani Secondary School in what promises to be a mouth-watering encounter.

The winners of the respective semifinals will advance to Sunday’s finals, with the champions taking home Ksh. 250,000, while the runners-up will pocket Ksh. 150,000, alongside other individual prizes including smartphones.

Editor's Note: This sports piece is compiled from a press release sent to newsrooms.

County champions from Isiolo, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni and Marsabit win Ksh. 75,000 each and advance to the Eastern Region finals in Embu

Safaricom Chapa Dimba has crowned county champions across the Eastern Region following an action-packed weekend of county finals, with young footballers competing for county honours and a place in the Eastern Region finals.

The county finals were held across Isiolo, Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, and Marsabit, bringing together talented young footballers in both the boys’ and girls’ categories.

The county champions in both categories each received KSh. 75,000, while the runners-up received Ksh. 30,000, alongside other individual awards. The champions will now advance to the Eastern Region finals, where they will compete for regional honours.

In Embu, Royal Queens Academy were crowned girls’ champions after defeating Ishiara Bright Starlets 7-0 in the final at Embu Moi Stadium. In the boys’ category, Black Cats Football Academy claimed the county title with an emphatic 8-1 victory over Ishiara Bright Academy.

In Machakos, MCF Starlets emerged as the girls’ county champions after defeating Kibauni Ladies 1-0 in the final. MCF Starlets secured their place in the final with a 1-0 victory over Kisooni Queens, while Kibauni Ladies advanced after a goalless draw with Kyumbi All-Stars Queens, winning 5-4 on penalties.

In the boys’ category, Golden Football Academy were crowned county champions after overcoming Masii Boys 4-1 on penalties, following a goalless draw in the final. Golden Football Academy had earlier defeated Koma United 3-0 in the semi-final, while Masii Boys progressed after a 3-1 victory over Matuu Homeboys.

In Kitui, Syomunyu Queens were crowned girls’ county champions after defeating ISAA Queens FC 3-0 in the final. Syomunyu Queens had earlier secured their place in the final with a 4-1 victory over Nguni Sirens, while ISAA Queens FC advanced after receiving a walkover against United Starlets in the quarter-finals before defeating Kitui FC Ladies 2-0 in the semi-final.

In the boys’ category, SMPI Academy claimed the county title after defeating Mwingi Junior Academy 3-0 in the final. SMPI Academy had earlier edged St. Charles Lwanga 1-0 in the semi-final, while Mwingi Junior Stars progressed after a goalless draw with Nyanyaa Bullets, winning 3-2 on penalties.

In Isiolo, Bridge Starlets were crowned girls’ county champions, while MAFA FC claimed the boys’ county title. In Meru, Akuune Queens secured the girls’ county title, while Makinduri Rockstars emerged as the boys’ champions.

In Makueni, AIC Sultan was crowned girls’ county champions, while in Marsabit, Dakabaricha Girls emerged as the girls’ county champions and Abdary FC secured the boys’ title. In Tharaka Nithi, Mugona Girls were crowned girls’ county champions, while Kajiunduthi High claimed the boys’ county title.  

The county finals provided a competitive platform for emerging footballers across the Eastern Region to showcase their talent, with teams battling through the various stages of the tournament for an opportunity to represent their counties at the regional level.

“Congratulations to all the county champions and every team that participated in the Eastern Region County finals. The level of competition and talent witnessed across the counties has been encouraging, and we are pleased to provide young footballers with a platform to showcase their abilities and compete at a higher level. We look forward to the Eastern Region finals as the county champions come together to battle for regional honours,” said Oliver Kiptoo, FKF National Coordinator.

The Eastern Region finals will be held on 2nd and 3rd October 2026 in Embu, bringing together the top boys’ and girls’ teams from the eight counties. The county champions will battle for regional honours and an opportunity to progress further in the Safaricom Chapa Dimba tournament, as the competition continues to provide a pathway for young footballers to develop and showcase their talent.

By VICTOR KIPROTICH LANGAT 

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student, Chuka University 

From the first whistle of CHAN 2024, Kenya’s Harambee Stars captured the hearts of millions. Hosting the tournament, receiving support from leaders and celebrities and playing with passion, they proved that football is more than a game. It is hope, pride and unity for a nation.

On a warm evening in Nairobi, floodlights illuminated the stadium as thousands of Kenyan voices rose together. Flags waved, drums echoed and the national anthem filled the air. When the Harambee Stars walked onto the pitch, it was more than football; It was hope, pride and unity that rolled into one moment. For fans who were used to disappointment, this felt different. This time, the Stars were playing on home ground  and the whole country was watching.

The African Nations Championship,CHAN, is a tournament reserved for players in local leagues. No foreign-based stars are allowed making it a true test of domestic talent. For Kenya, CHAN 2024 was a chance to prove that local players could compete at a high level. Hosting the tournament was also historic. Stadiums were renovated, roads repaired, security strengthened and hotels prepared for visiting teams and fans. The Kasarani Stadium and Nyayo Stadium became the base for a national celebration.

Preparation of the Harambee Stars began weeks before the opening whistle. Most players came from local clubs, some balanced football with work as police officers or soldiers. Many carried families relying on their earnings. Training sessions were intense  focusing on fitness, teamwork and discipline. Players during camp could be heard saying, “Playing at home gives you strength but it also gives fear because you don’t want to disappoint your people.”

National leaders and celebrities stepped in to motivate the team. The President, William Ruto, visited the squad and praised their dedication. He promised financial rewards for wins and draws and spoke of long-term support including housing programs and post-career opportunities. “You are playing for the pride of the nation,” he said. “Give your best, and the country will stand with you.” Business leaders and former football stars also pledged bonuses and public encouragement  and the effect was real. One player later said, “When people believe in you before you win, it pushes you to go beyond your limits.”

The opening match day arrived with continuous excitement. Streets crowd with fans wearing jerseys and waving flags. Public transport played football songs, vendors sold whistles and scarves. Inside the stadium, families gathered, children painted their faces and elders also active. When the Harambee Stars appeared on the pitch, the roar from the stands was so loud. “This is our time,”  fans shouted.

The matches were tense. Every tackle, pass  and save drew cheers. When Kenya scored, strangers hugged as if they were family. Even in draws, fans left the stadium proud. The team’s determination and unity were clear. After one group-stage game, a coach commented, “This team is learning fast. They are no longer afraid.”

The tournament was also about human stories. One player had recently lost his father but dedicated every minute on the pitch to his memory. Others sent their  match allowances home to support siblings in school. Every  player who rarely appeared celebrated each goal with the same intensity as a scorer. “We win and lose together,”  they said.

As the group stage progressed, the Stars continued to defy expectations. Facing opponents from Morocco, Angola and DR Congo, they played with skill, courage and unity. Fans who could not attend the stadiums gathered at fan zones across cities. In one Nairobi zone fans  watching  said, “They may not win everything but they are fighting for us. That is enough.”

Reaching the quarterfinal was historic. The streets filled with expectations and excitement. Media headlines grew stronger. The match was dramatic, ninety minutes passed without a winner followed by extra time. When the game went to penalties, the tension was unbearable. A missed kick led to silence, some fans wept. Players collapsed, overcome by emotion. One player later admitted, “At that moment, I felt like I had let the whole country down.” Yet the crowd rose, applauding and singing. In defeat, the Harambee Stars received respect, admiration and love.

After elimination, questions arose about promised bonuses and support. Officials reassured the public that rewards would be honored and while some were paid immediately, others became subjects of debate in the media. For the players, however, recognition had already been received. “For the first time,” players said, “people know our names.”

Beyond the pitch, CHAN left a lasting legacy. Hosting improved infrastructure, boosted local football and gave young players role models to emulate. Football academies reported increased interest in training programs, fans spoke of inspiration and hope. Visiting supporters praised Kenya’s hospitality.They said, “Kenya welcomed us like family. This tournament felt special.”

The media praised the Stars’ effort and progress emphasizing that while they had not won the trophy, they had restored belief in Kenyan football. Analysts called it a foundation for future success. Children wore Harambee Stars jerseys to school and young girls and boys dreamed of playing for the national team. CHAN had done more than test local talent, it had reignited the nation’s love for football.

The emotional impact of CHAN extended beyond sports. It reminded Kenyans that hope, pride and unity could emerge from shared experience. The stadiums, fan zones and even homes became spaces where Kenyans celebrated together. For a country often divided by politics and social tension, football provided a rare moment of collective joy.

In the end, the Harambee Stars did not lift the African Nations Championship trophy but they achieved something equally powerful. They united a nation, reminded citizens of the beauty of local talent and inspired young players to pursue their dreams. The team gave Kenyans reason to believe in themselves and in each other once again. Football, in its simplest form, had delivered hope.

As the stadium lights went off and banners were packed away, one truth remained; sometimes victory is measured not in trophies, but in belief. And during CHAN 2024, the Harambee Stars gave Kenya a victory that could never be taken away.

By DENNIS KIPKOECH TOO 

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student,  Chuka University 

On any given Saturday afternoon in Nairobi, Kisumu, or Mombasa, the atmosphere in the local "base" areas and sports bars are buzzing. However, the roar of the crowd isn't for a local derby between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards at the Nyayo National Stadium, instead, it is from miles away at Anfield or the Emirates. The irony of Kenyan football is noticeable, while the country has rich talented players and a deep-seated passion of football the local top, the Kenya Premier League continues to be less popular than the English Premier League.

The dominance of English football in Kenya is not just a matter of taste, it is a result of effective marketing and accessibility. According to a Stahili Pulse Report released in late 2025, nearly 43% of Kenyan fans prefer watching matches at home with their families while 21% prefer watching in public spaces. The emotional connection is deepened by the presence of African icons. According to Capital FM, the popularity of the EPL in Kenya is fueled by the "African connection." Fans feel a sense of pride watching stars like Mohamed Salah and Thomas Partey shine on the global stage. Historically, the presence of Kenyan legend Victor Wanyama at Tottenham Hotspur solidified this bond, turning thousands of Kenyans into "Spurs" supporters overnight.

KPL has faced structural challenges. A 2026 report by Filo identifies three major challenges facing local football. These are; lack of modern training facilities and poorly maintained pitches increase injury risks. Frequent leadership disputes within the Football Kenya Federation led to FIFA bans and inconsistent free to air coverage.

EPL has also become closely linked to Kenya's economic landscape through the betting industry. The Stahili Pulse Report indicates that the highest regular expense for Kenyan football lovers is betting, with many fans spending up to KSh 500 every weekend on EPL multi-bets. The predictability of the English league's schedule and the wealth of available data make it a more attractive investment for many than the more volatile local scene.

KPL needs professional management and to prioritize fans to compete with EPL's popularity. Until then, as the sun sets over the Nairobi skyline, the most common question in the streets won't be "Who won the KPL?" but rather, "What was the score in the Arsenal game?"