The Nyanza region came alive this weekend as Tujiamini Cheza Dimba powered by SportPesa lit up Raila Odinga Stadium in Homabay with thrilling grassroots football action. Bondo United FC and Magina Starlets, both hailing from Siaya County, emerged regional champions after a day of intense competition and community celebration.
Bondo United claimed the men’s crown after defeating Awendo FC from Migori 1–0 in a tightly contested final. The winning goal came in the 32nd minute when Awendo’s Clinton Ochieng accidentally directed the ball into his own net under sustained pressure from the Bondo attack.
Earlier, Bondo United had booked their place in the final with a convincing 2–0 win over Sindo Select FC, while Awendo edged out Bobaracho FC 5–4 in a tense penalty shootout.
In the women’s final, Magina Starlets delivered a spirited performance to edge out Nyamira-based Masosa Starlets 1–0. Forward Scolastica netted the only goal in the 16th minute after slicing through Masosa’s defence, sealing victory for coach Hamisi Daudi’s side.
“The game was tough because our opponents were really good. We created several chances that we didn’t fully capitalise on, but our persistence paid off. This win means so much to our team, and we’re grateful to SportPesa for organising this tournament that gives grassroots teams hope,” said Nora Peter, player for Magina Starlets.
As regional champions, Bondo United will receive KES 250,000 annually for the next three years, alongside home and away kits. Magina Starlets earned a KES 50,000 one-off prize, which the team plans to use for training equipment. Both teams will also benefit from a three-year mentorship programme under SportPesa’s Tujiamini platform to support their growth and development.
“These kinds of tournaments are crucial for grassroots football here in mashinani. With prize money on the line, the players are more motivated, and the level of football has been fantastic. The win will help us as we prepare to enter the Division One league,” said Eric Tutem, Head Coach of Bondo United.
The Nyanza edition featured eight teams (six men’s and two women’s), adding another successful chapter to SportPesa’s mission to promote football talent across Kenya.
“Tujiamini is more than a platform; it is a movement that nurtures belief and rewards potential. From sports to community initiatives, we are seeing first-hand how belief transforms lives,” said Japhet Akhulia, Head of Partnerships and Sponsorships at SportPesa.
The next stop for Tujiamini Cheza Dimba is the South Rift region, to be hosted in Narok on November 15, 2025, where eight more teams will compete for regional supremacy.
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