The Western Region Tujiamini Cheza Dimba final ended prematurely after it emerged that Seregeya FC and Museno Sambakhulu FC had fielded players from both Division One and Two of the Football Kenya Federation league, contrary to the grassroots football categorization of the tournament.
During the tournament, concerns were raised about the eligibility of some players scheduled to participate in the final match. Following a joint executive decision by the Football Kenya Federation, county representatives, participating team managers, match officials, and representatives from Tujiamini, it was determined that the teams would be disqualified.
As a result, the tournament was called off without the crowning of a champion in the Western region edition of the Cheza Dimba tournament with SportPesa, sponsors of the Tujiamini initiative reaffirming their commitment to supporting the growth of grassroots sports with integrity and transparency.
"As we follow due process to determine the facts that led to the abandonment of the match we want to reassure our stakeholders that Tujiamini initiative shall not tolerate incidences of cheating and other unsportsmanlike behavior. It is our intention to help grow grassroots talent in Kenya by supporting community teams and we urge all participants to uphold integrity at all times in all the award categories" said Willis Ojwang, Head of Communication and Partnership at SportPesa.
The tournament, part of the four categories of the Tujiamini awards, brought together six male teams from four counties at the Mumias Complex on August 2, 2024 following a month-long application process. At stake was a three-year sponsorship deal worth Kes 750,000 including kit support and mentorship programs among other benefits to the winner.
Consultations are ongoing to address the concerns raised and ensure that the deserving team benefits from the sponsorship. Tujiamini remains dedicated to fostering the development of grassroots football and ensuring fair play for all participants.