It is common knowledge that in Kenya there is a wealth of sporting talent. What has been lacking so far is investment in developing this talent by the powers that be. Over the years this has seen many talented sports men and women who could have brought glory to our country just waste away. Despite these challenges, there are a few who have managed to make it to the international level for example Victor Wanyama, Mariga among others. This is why I have a huge appreciation for corporates like Safaricom who invest in nurturing sporting talent in the youth through the Chapa Dimba tournament.
In the first edition of Chapa Dimba, 1,500 teams took part with the finals held at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega. From the tournament, 13 players got signed up to join the under 20 national team. Several players were called up to join local top leagues for both men and women. Not to mention the KES 1M cash prize and a trip to London for a mentorship and a training camp for the winners.
The second edition of the tournament is back and this time it is bigger and better. Safaricom has partnered with La Liga and this will see certified La Liga coaches travel to Kenya to scout for talented players both boys and girls who will make up an all-star team. Just like the first season the tournament will target talented male and female youth aged between 16 and 20 with an aim of developing grassroots football, scouting for talent and propelling gifted players to the national limelight. Group games will be played countrywide as from October 2018.
Charles Kare, Acting Director, Consumer Business Unit, Safaricom, had this to say, “We are very excited to be bringing on board LaLiga to add to the already existing partnership we have with FKF for this second season of Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom. As you know LaLiga is home to some of the best footballers in the world including five time world player of year Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Antoine Griezmann and Luka Modric. The all-star team selected will get a chance to attend a 10 day the training camp in Spain and will also play a few friendly games against the world’s best Spanish LaLiga academies.”
Registration for tournament is currently ongoing and will close on 30th September 2018. Click here to register your team or pick the registration forms from all Safaricom shops and local FKF offices.