Kakamega, Kenya – Friday, 2nd January 2026
The FKF Kakamega Youth Mini League came to a colorful and competitive conclusion on Friday at the Kakamega High School Grounds, with thrilling matches played simultaneously on Field A Field B and Field C. The one-day tournament, which kicked off at 8:00am and ended with an awards ceremony at 3:00pm, brought together some of the county’s most promising young football talents in the U13, U15 and U17 Boys categories.
U13 Boys – Rising Stars Steal the Spotlight
The U13 category lived up to expectations, showcasing raw talent, skill, and exciting attacking football.
In the semifinals, Manyika FC edged out Classic Boys Kakamega in a dramatic 3–2 encounter, while Shidodo Juniors delivered a composed 2–0 victory over Mahiri Soccer Academy.
The final was a one-sided affair as Shidodo Juniors dominated Manyika FC with an emphatic 4–1 win, underlining their teamwork, discipline, and clinical finishing to lift the U13 title.
U15 Boys – Drama, Discipline and Determination
The U15 category delivered intensity both on and off the pitch. In Semi Final 1, Mukhonje Youth were initially winners, but the result was overturned after they were found to have fielded over-age players. In line with competition rules and the league’s commitment to integrity and fair play, the match was awarded to Red Commandos with a 2–0 victory.
Semi Final 2 saw a tightly contested clash where Mundulu Youth edged Murhanda Youth 1–0 in a match defined by strong defending and tactical discipline from both sides.
In the final, Red Commandos demonstrated composure and attacking intent, edging Mundulu Youth 1–0 in a hard-fought encounter to be crowned U15 champions.
U17 Boys – Power and Precision on Display
The U17 category brought stiff competition, physical battles, and tactical maturity.
In the first semifinal, Shibuye Youth secured a narrow but well-earned 1–0 victory over Shitsiswi Youth in a high-intensity encounter. The second semifinal saw Lwanda K FC dominate proceedings with a commanding 3–0 win over Classic Soccer Academy.
The final saw Lwanda K FC produce a ruthless display, overpowering Shibuye Youth 4–1 to claim the U17 title and cap off an impressive tournament run.
Awards and Recognition
In line with FKF Kakamega Youth League’s commitment to youth development and support for grassroots teams:
- All participating teams received 2 footballs
- Semi-finalists who did not reach the finals received 3 footballs
- Runners-up received 4 footballs plus silverware
- Winners were awarded 5 footballs plus goldware
A Bright Future for Kakamega Football
The successful staging of the county-wide mini league highlighted the depth of talent within Kakamega and reaffirmed FKF’s dedication to structured youth development. Parents, coaches, officials and fans praised the organization, discipline, and competitive spirit displayed throughout the tournament.
As the curtains closed on the mini league, one message was clear: the future of Kakamega football is bright, and it is already taking shape on the grassroots pitches.
FKF NEC Western Mr. Caleb Amwayi Graces the FKF Kakamega Youth League Mini League Finals
The FKF Kakamega Youth League Mini League Finals received a major boost following the presence of Football Kenya Federation (FKF) NEC Western Representative, Mr. Caleb Amwayi, who graced the colourful event as the chief guest.
Held amid high excitement and competitive spirit, the finals brought together some of the most promising young talents from across Kakamega County. Mr. Amwayi’s attendance underscored FKF’s continued commitment to nurturing grassroots football and strengthening youth development structures within the Western Region.
Speaking during the event, Mr. Amwayi commended the organisers, coaches, referees, and parents for their collective role in supporting youth football. He encouraged the young players to remain disciplined, focused, and committed both on and off the pitch, noting that platforms such as the Kakamega Youth League are critical pathways to professional football.
“Youth leagues like this one are the foundation of our football ecosystem. FKF remains committed to supporting such initiatives to ensure talent is identified early and developed holistically,” he said.
The finals were marked by thrilling matches, impressive individual performances, and exemplary sportsmanship. Outstanding teams and players were rewarded, further motivating the participants to pursue excellence in the sport.
The FKF Kakamega Youth League Mini League continues to play a key role in talent identification and development, aligning with FKF’s broader vision of building a strong football future from the grassroots level.
🗣️ Main Themes from Chairman Jeff Mudembei’s Address
1. Commitment to Youth Development
Chairman Jeff Mudembei reaffirmed that youth football is central to FKF Kakamega’s development strategy, emphasizing that competitions like the Youth Mini League are crucial platforms for young talent to gain competitive experience, showcase their abilities, and grow within the sport. He highlighted the federation’s ongoing investment in grassroots structures and noted pride in how young players are progressing across the county.
2. Supporting Fair Competition & Exposure
He stressed that the mini league format brings together the best zonal teams in U13, U15, and U17 categories, allowing them to compete fairly and demonstrate their skills. Such exposure, he noted, is key to identifying future stars and elevating the standards of youth football in Kakamega.
3. Recognition & Encouragement of Participants
Mudembei highlighted that winners would be crowned county champions, receive trophies, and all teams would be gifted official footballs as tokens of support—part of FKF Kakamega’s effort to motivate continued training, growth, and sustained participation in youth leagues.
4. Building a Strong Football Culture
His remarks tied the tournament to the broader vision of developing a strong football culture in Kakamega, one that embraces discipline, teamwork, and community support for young athletes. By investing in structures and competitions at this level, the federation hopes to create a pipeline of talent that can progress to higher levels of the game.
📌 Key Quotes (Paraphrased from Official Coverage)
- “Youth football remains a key pillar of our development agenda. This mini league brings together the best zonal teams and gives them an opportunity to compete fairly and showcase their abilities”.
- “Beyond competition, we want to support our teams materially. Awarding county champions and presenting balls to participating teams is our way of encouraging continued training, growth, and sustainability of youth football across Kakamega County.” – Jeff Mudembei
Alex Alumira Reaffirms FKF Commitment to Youth Football Development in Kakamega County
The Coordinator of the FKF Nationwide Youth Leagues, Alex Alumira, has lauded Kakamega County for its strong commitment to grassroots football development during the FKF Kakamega Youth League Mini League Finals.
Speaking at the event, Alumira emphasized that Kakamega County continues to play a key role in shaping the future of Kenyan football through structured youth competitions that offer young players a platform to showcase and develop their talent.
“The FKF Nationwide Youth Leagues were designed to ensure that every talented young footballer, regardless of location, gets an opportunity to grow. What we are witnessing in Kakamega today is a clear demonstration that this vision is being realized,” said Alumira.
He commended FKF Kakamega County officials for organizing a competitive and well-structured Mini League, noting that such initiatives provide young players with vital match experience, discipline, and exposure at an early age.
Alumira also praised coaches, referees, and team officials for their dedication, highlighting their role in nurturing not only football talent but also discipline and character among young players. He further acknowledged parents and guardians for their continued support, describing them as key partners in the journey of youth football development.
Addressing the players, Alumira encouraged them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to their dreams. He reminded them that participation in youth leagues is the foundation for future opportunities at club and national levels.
“As FKF, we remain committed to strengthening youth football structures across the country. Kakamega County has shown that with proper organization and support, grassroots football can thrive and produce future stars for Kenyan football,” he added.
The FKF Kakamega Youth League Mini League Finals brought together talented young footballers from across the county, underlining FKF’s broader goal of ensuring no talent is left behind as the federation continues to expand youth competitions nationwide.
Kakamega County Showcases Strong Commitment to Youth and Women Football Development
Kakamega County reaffirmed its growing reputation as a hub for grassroots football development following the successful staging of the FKF Youth League Mini League Finals, an event that brought together administrators, coaches, academies, parents, and young players from across the county.
Speaking during the finals, Alex Alumira, on behalf of the FKF Nationwide Technical Team, praised Kakamega for aligning with the federation’s vision of structured talent development at the grassroots level.
“What we are witnessing in Kakamega is exactly what the Nationwide Youth Leagues were designed for — organized competition, talent identification, and long-term player development. Kakamega County continues to demonstrate that grassroots football is the foundation of Kenya’s future,” said Alumira.
He emphasized that consistent competitions such as mini leagues play a critical role in nurturing discipline, character, and competitive experience among young players.
Call for Increased Women Participation
FKF’s commitment to inclusive football development was strongly echoed by Emily Khasiro, the FKF Women’s Representative, who called for deliberate efforts to increase participation of girls and women’s teams in county leagues.
“We must intentionally create space for girls to play football. Talent among young ladies is there, but opportunities are still limited. I encourage Kakamega County clubs, academies, and schools to register and support ladies’ teams so that no talent is left behind,” said Khasiro.
She added that women’s football development must begin at grassroots level to build a strong pipeline for future regional and national teams.
Strong Local Coordination Praised
Fred, the Youth League Coordinator – Kakamega Centre, highlighted the importance of collaboration between FKF officials, academies, and sub-branches in ensuring smooth organization of youth competitions.
“This league is a result of teamwork. From scheduling matches to ensuring fair play, everyone played their part. Our focus remains giving young players regular competitive football in a safe and structured environment,” he noted.
Similarly, FKF Kakamega Youth Representative Fred Kubati underscored the role of youth leadership in empowering young players.
“These competitions give young footballers a voice and a platform. Beyond football, we are mentoring future leaders and role models within our communities,” said Kubati.
County Leadership Applauds Grassroots Growth
FKF Kakamega County CEO Simon Karanga commended the steady growth of youth football structures in the county, noting that Kakamega continues to attract recognition nationally.
“We are proud of the progress we are making as a county. Our priority is to strengthen youth leagues, support academies, and ensure football development is inclusive and sustainable,” Karanga stated.
He added that FKF Kakamega remains committed to working with partners and stakeholders to expand football opportunities across all sub-counties.
Academies and Sub-Branches Recognized
Representing private academies, Mahiri Soccer Academy CEO Benbella emphasized the value of structured FKF competitions for player growth.
“These leagues give academies a clear pathway for developing players. When young players compete regularly under FKF structures, their confidence and discipline improve tremendously,” said Benbella.
Meanwhile, the Shinyalu Sub-Branch FKF Chairman praised the county for decentralizing football development.
“Taking football to the grassroots through sub-branches ensures every talented child gets a chance. Shinyalu remains committed to supporting youth and women football initiatives,” he said.
A United Vision for the Future
The event concluded with a shared call from stakeholders for continued investment in youth and women football, improved facilities, and stronger partnerships at county and national levels.
As the final whistle blew, one message stood out clearly — Kakamega County is steadily building a solid foundation for the future of Kenyan football.
In The Galleries
FOOTBALL KENYA FEDERATION KAKAMEGA 