The youth in Meru County are gearing up to showcase their football prowess with the launch of a football tournament by Betika Company through its ‘Betika na community’ initiative. The tournament is scheduled to kick off from March 10 to March 31, providing a platform for at least 48 teams, including 32 men’s clubs and 16 women’s clubs, to compete.
The launch event at Kinoru Stadium saw Betika Managing Director, Mr. Mutua Mutava, express the company’s commitment to nurturing talents in the county and elevating football from a mere game to a potential career. Mr. Mutava announced that all participating teams would receive full jerseys, with the overall winners in each category receiving Sh1 million, runners-up getting Sh500,000, and the third position taking home Sh250,000.
Emphasizing the significance of the tournament, Mr. Mutava encouraged participants to dedicate themselves to the event, as success could lead to the establishment of an annual football tradition. He highlighted the opportunity for players to be scouted during the tournament, potentially becoming a turning point in their lives.
Mr. Mutava also revealed Betika’s intention to explore partnerships for establishing a football academy in the region. Meru County’s Executive for Sports, Gender, Culture, and Social Development, Mr. Benjamin Mungania, welcomed Betika to the county, recognizing the potential impact on young individuals seeking to monetize their football talents. He affirmed the county government’s readiness to collaborate with Betika in supporting emerging football talents, highlighting the positive influence of such events in keeping the youth engaged and deterring them from unlawful activities, including drug abuse.
Looking ahead, Mr. Mungania announced the county’s plans to launch the Governor’s Cup in August, attracting young participants from across the region. Federation of Kenyan Football County Chairman, Mr. Ken Rungu, acknowledged the rising state of football in the county over the past year, attributing it to various tournaments and corporate sponsorships for local football clubs.
