Kenyan internationals to feature in Empower Mchezaji tournament

Harambee Starlets duo Diana Wacera and Violet Nanjala after Kenya's 4-0 win over Uganda in Tanzania. [Harambee Starlets, X]

Harambee Stars and Harambee Starlets players are among the top players who will feature in today's in inaugural Empower Mchezaji seven-a-side tournament at Mashuuru Sports Complex in Kajiado County.

Yanga SC midfielder Duke Abuya, Kenya Police trio of David Ochieng, Jesse Were, and Kenneth Muguna, and Mathare United's Musa Masika are among the top players who will feature in the eight-team tournament.

US-based Mwanalima Adam will lead the women's delegation that has newly signed Simba Queens midfielder Cynthia Shilwatso, Corazone Aquino, Jentrix Shikangwa, Violet Nanjala, Diana Wacera, Mercy Njeri, Vivian Nasaka, Faith Mboya, Fasila Adhiambo, Terry Engesha, and Evalyn Juma.

The internationals have spread across the eight teams. Group A has Wangari Warriors, Chelagat Chargers, Wanja Waves, and Nyiva Champs, while Kipyegon Strikers headline Group B alongside Obiri Starlets, Orie Rogo Falcons, and Karua Queens.

According to the organiser, Nana Owiti, the tournament, themed Slay the Game, Silence the Violence," aims to fight against Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in sports.

"I initiated this tournament because I'm really passionate about women's sports in Kenya, and that is why I always come up with strong messages to safeguard them," said Owiti.

"This is the first tournament, and it comprises international players, two women Premier League players, National Super League and U20 players. It involves players from all tiers because they get to learn from each other.

"Whatever message we are trying to give out is from the grassroots to the national level. Each team has a male player as a way of extending our allyship to our male counterparts because we are addressing Sexual Gender-Based Violence. We are not only talking to the male players but also the coaches, fans, and officials. A lot of SGBV is happening in sports, and no one is strongly talking about it."