The roar of thousands of fans echoed across Kinoru Stadium as jubilant players hoisted trophies, medals while oversized cheques changed hands, bringing the curtain down on the Governor Mutuma Super Cup in a colourful celebration of grassroots sport that saw Meru County disburse Sh 8million in prize money.
For weeks, teams had battled across the County.
On Sunday, the winners finally reaped the rewards amid singing, dancing and emotional celebrations as footballers and athletes walked away with medals and cash prizes.
The biggest cheers were a reserve for Tigania West’s Limauru FC, who emerged men’s champions after edging Imenti Central’s Kauthene FC 6-5 in a tense penalty shootout following a goalless draw at the full time whistle.
Their victory earned them a cash prize of Sh1 million and the tournament trophy.
Kauthene FC settled for Sh750,000 as runners-up, KeMU FC pocketed Sh500,000 after finishing third, while Maua United received Sh300,000 for fourth place.
In the women’s competition, Tigania East’s Mwariama Queens completed an impressive campaign to lift the title and Sh1 million prize.
Flamingo FC finished second to receive Sh750,000, Simba Queens FC claimed third place, while Akuune FC finished fourth.
Athletics champions also shared in the windfall after competitors in the 100 metres, 200 metres, 400 metres, 800 metres, 1,500 metres and 3,000 metres races received medals alongside cash awards.
Meru Senator Kathuri Murungi added to the celebrations by personally rewarding teams with additional cash bonuses ranging between Sh30,000 and Sh50,000.
Kathuri hailed the tournament saying it had laid a great foundation to uplifting and empowering young people.
“What Mutuma has done since assuming office, no other governor has done it. This is why I dropped my gubernatorial bid to fully support his leadership,” Senator Kathuri said.
The grand finale drew football enthusiasts from across the County and was graced by former Manchester United midfielder Anderson and former Harambee Stars head coach Jacob “Ghost” Mulee, giving local players a rare opportunity to interact with internationally renowned football personalities.
Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia dismissed speculation that public funds had been used to bring Anderson to Meru, saying the Brazilian attended through personal connections.
“We did not spend any county money to bring Anderson here. He honoured our invitation through friendship and goodwill because he believes in supporting young talent,” Mutuma said.
The governor said the tournament had achieved far more than producing champions, describing it as a platform for addressing social challenges affecting young people.
“This competition has united our youth, identified football talent and created an avenue to speak against gender-based violence, teenage pregnancy and drug abuse. Sport has once again demonstrated its power to inspire hope, transform lives and strengthen communities,” he said.
Mutuma said the end of the tournament marked the beginning of a broader youth empowerment agenda through sports.
Deputy Governor Lindah Kiome said the tournament had brought communities together while giving young people a positive outlet.
“The competition showcased the immense talent of our youth while creating an opportunity to engage them on issues affecting their lives. It has strengthened unity across our county, and we remain committed to supporting programmes that open more opportunities for young people,” she said.
Sports Executive Elius Murega said the successful conclusion of the tournament fulfilled a promise Governor Mutuma made when he assumed office.
“Many doubted this tournament would be completed, but the Governor has delivered on the commitment he made in his inaugural address. The people will judge leadership by promises fulfilled,” Murega said.
Edited by John Majau
