Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika’s Cup 2026 has been launched.
The Governor’s Cup was launched at Afraha Stadium by Governor Susan Kihika who was accompanied by her Deputy David Kones, CECMs, MPs and MCAs among others.
Kihika termed the tournament as key in enhancing talents at grassroot.
“I officially launched the Nakuru County Governor’s Cup 2026 at Afraha Stadium, marking the start of what I believe will grow into one of the most transformative sporting tournaments in our county,” stated Kihika.
According to Kihika, this inaugural competition, organized in partnership with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), will be staged across villages, wards, and sub-counties before culminating in the county finals.
She announced that attractive prizes have been set aside at every level, with the overall winners walking away with Sh1 million.
The Governor hinting at making the Governor’s Cup an annual event.
“My administration is committed to making the Governor’s Cup an annual event that consistently nurtures talent, scouts talent, promotes healthy competition and strengthens community unity,” she said.
This, even as Kihika maintained that sports remain a powerful vehicle for youth empowerment, talent identification, and social transformation.
Through this tournament, Kihika stated that her administration continues to create opportunities for young people to showcase their abilities while opening pathways for personal growth and future success both on and off the field.
“As a County Government, we continue to invest heavily in sports infrastructure,” she said.
She used the moment to laud the ongoing upgrade of Afraha Stadium, being undertaken in partnership with the Kenya Defence Forces.
According to her, the work is progressing well and will elevate the facility to international standards once completed.
“We are also constructing a modern stadium in Olenguruone and remain committed to ensuring every constituency has access to quality sporting facilities,” she said.
Beyond sports, Kihika’s administration is empowering youth through a range of programmes, including music recording initiatives, textile hubs, skills development projects, and enterprise support aimed at creating sustainable livelihoods.
During the launch of the Governor’s Cup, the opening matches delivered exciting action, with Ogilgei FC defeating Wakulima FC in a penalty shootout after a closely fought contest.
In the second fixture, Kivumbini FC secured a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Kibara FC (Kuresoi North) to advance to the next stage of the tournament.