Kapenguria Heroes from West Pokot and Plateau Queens from Kisumu, winners of the Inaugural edition of Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom Youth tournament, launched in June 2017, left Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for their five-day tour of London on 11th May.
Kapenguria Heroes and Plateau Queens won both Boys and Girls categories respectively in the National finals of the tournament. The finals were held between 23rd and 25th of March at the Bukhungu Stadium, Kakamega County and each team pocketed a KES 1M cash prize and a trip to London for a mentorship and a training camp.
While in London, they will get to watch one English Premier League game between Tottenham Hotspur and Leicester on Sunday. They will also have a training and mentorship session with fierce Tottenham midfielder Victor Mugubi Wanyama and then tour the capital and most populous city of England; London, before returning to the country.
“This is a dream come true for us and it is hard to believe that it is happening. We deeply thank Safaricom for fullfilling this promise and assisting us in processing our passports as well. It is a memorable moment for the entire team and the joy is incredible,” said Edwin Sakwa, Coach Plateau Queens.
Soccer stars have emerged out this tournament with over 20 young talented players being propelled into the national U20 team and several others signed into the Kenya Premier League teams.
“I cannot express my joy today, I am extremely happy. It is my first time to be on a plane. I will also get to meet victor Wanyama for the first time and it is a great opportunity. I hope this trip will make a difference in our football life professionally. Thank you Safaricom for this trip, said Kennedy Wesonga, player Kapenguria Heroes.