Women football players in Kericho County have received a significant boost following assurances of sponsorship and academy training under the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).

Kericho, like most parts of Kenya’s Rift Valley is known to produce athletics world beaters, but football now penetrating the grassroots in a county synonymous with tea production.

The move seeks to empower women by enhancing their confidence, health and leadership potential through sports.

Speaking during the thrilling finals of the Ann Too Ladies’ Tournament on March 19 at Kericho Green Stadium, Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) Director Ann Too unveiled a ground-breaking partnership with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).

The strategic collaboration aims to significantly increase the registration of women footballers into professional academies, paving the way for greater opportunities and development in women’s football across the country.

“We hope to hold tournaments like this every year and attract even more sponsors. Some have already promised to donate sporting gear like boots and others have pledged to sponsor teams to participate in international tournaments,” she revealed.

Too highlighted a long-term vision for sustainable support and growth in women’s football, with plans already being mooted to secure both local and international partnerships aimed at elevating the sport and expanding opportunities for female sporting activities across the country.

She added that the initiative would also involve lobbying for sponsorships to support the most promising players, with the goal of nurturing talent and creating more opportunities for women in the sport. Too further urged more leaders to step forward and support such initiatives at the grassroots level, adding that local empowerment begins with close community engagement.

She emphasised the importance of creating equal opportunities for women in sports and other income-generating activities.

“This tournament has not just been about livelihoods. It has opened up women to new possibilities and revealed their hidden potential. We have had older women, some mothers and farmers who had never kicked a ball or worn sports gear. This has shown them that they too can do it,” she emphasised.

Sidian Bank senior management representative George Odero said the bank’s multifaceted role in supporting sports in Kenya, including sponsoring events, promoting community sports, and partnering with organisations to develop sports infrastructure and talent.

Odero added that Sidian Bank also provides financial solutions to sports-related businesses and entrepreneurs.

In a heart-stopping final that had fans on the edge of their seats, Kipchebor Starlets and Kapngetuch Queens locked horns in a fierce showdown that ended 1-1 after 90 minutes of relentless action. With neither side willing to give an inch, the match was forced into a dramatic penalty shootout.

Amid deafening cheers and nail-biting tension, Kipchebor Starlets maintained composure and edged out their rivals 5-4 in a thrilling shootout to lift the coveted championship trophy. The victory not only secured them a gold medal, but also earned them a well-deserved top prize of Ksh1,000,000 ($7,700).

Kapngetuch Queens, who delivered a strong performance throughout the tournament, secured second place and walked away with Ksh300,000 ($2,309).

In an intense third-place playoff, Koibeiyon FC delivered a footballing masterclass, demolishing Kapkiam FC 4-0 in a dominant performance that had fans on their feet. From start to finish, Koibeiyon controlled the game with pace and precision, securing a well-deserved Ksh150,000 ($1,154) for their spectacular effort.

Despite the defeat, Kapkiam FC held their heads high, earning Ksh50,000 ($385) for their spirited run to fourth place. The match was a spectacle, showcasing the fierce competitive spirit and talent that defined this unforgettable tournament.

The thrilling tournament, featuring fierce competition from across Ainamoi Sub-County, was made possible through the support of BCLB Director Too, in partnership with Sidian Bank and JamboBet. Their commitment to empowering grassroots football not only gave young talent a platform to shine but also brought the community together in celebration of passion, perseverance and the beautiful game.

With Kipchebor Starlets lifting the trophy in dramatic fashion, this tournament will be remembered not just for the goals and glory, but for igniting a new era of women’s football in the region.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Hillary Kemei and Gilbert Mutai

Kipchebor Starlets (in grey jerseys) playing against Kapngetuny Queens (in red jerseys) during the Ann Too Cup women football match finals. Credit: Gilbert Mutai.