The County Government of West Pokot, in partnership with the Department of Tourism, Culture, Social Services, Sports, and Youth Affairs, hosted a vibrant luncheon to celebrate the victorious KECOSCA 024 football team.
The team had just proven their skill as champions of the KICOSCA 2024 Men’s Football Tournament after securing an impressive 2-0 victory over Nairobi County in the final match at the Mumias Sports Complex in Kakamega County.
The victory marked a historic achievement for West Pokot, with the KECOSCA 024 team demonstrating exceptional talent, teamwork and determination on the field.
Speaking at the governor’s residence, Governor Simon Kachapin, congratulated the team for their dedication and outstanding achievement.
“This victory is not just a win for our team but for the entire County. Your hard work, discipline and passion have made us proud. This achievement shows what is possible when we invest in our youth and sports development,” Kachapin said.
Kachapin sent his best wishes to the KICOSCA 024 football team as they prepare to represent the county and the country at the upcoming East Africa Local Authorities Sports and Cultural Association (EALASCA) games in Kampala next week.
“We are extremely proud of what the team has accomplished so far, and now they have the honour of representing Kenya at the EALASCA games. I wish them all the best as they head to Kampala, and I have no doubt they will make us proud with their determination and skill,” Kachapin said.
He noted that the county administration is fully focused on providing the necessary infrastructure for athletes to thrive, as part of its broader initiative to boost sports in the region.
Governor Kachapin proudly announced that the county is undertaking extensive renovations of all local sports fields, ensuring that players have access to high-quality facilities for training and competitions.
“We are dedicated to creating an environment where our athletes can perform at their best by improving our sports fields. We are providing the youth with the right facilities to nurture their talents and achieve their dreams,” said Kachapin.
He further stressed the importance of investing in sports to promote physical health and foster unity and pride among the people of West Pokot.
Kachapin made a passionate call for support towards the newly crowned Miss Tourism Sarah Pkyach from West Pokot, encouraging the county’s leadership to assist her in furthering her personal and professional development.
“We are proud of her achievement, and it is crucial that we provide the necessary support to help her develop her potential further. She represents the beauty, talent and spirit of our county and we must help her flourish in her journey,” Kachapin said.
He urged the CECM to explore avenues that could provide the Miss Tourism winner with opportunities to advance her skills, whether through educational programmes, mentorship, or platform-building for her career.
Kachapin said he believes that empowering young women and fostering growth in the tourism and cultural sectors will not only promote the individual success of the winner but also raise the profile of the county as a thriving cultural hub.
The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Tourism, Culture, Social Services, Sports, and Youth Affairs, Lucky Litole, expressed her delight at seeing young people in West Pokot develop through sports, highlighting the importance of such activities in shaping the future of the county’s youth.
“There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing our young people excel and grow through sports. Sports not only help them stay physically fit, but they also instill valuable life skills like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance,” Litole said.
The CECM further emphasized the county’s commitment to creating opportunities for youth through sports, as it is a vital avenue for personal development and empowerment.
“Our focus is to provide the necessary resources, coaching, and platforms to help them reach their full potential,” Litole added.
On his part, Chief Officer of Tourism, Culture, Social Services, Sports, and Youth Affairs Edwin Lokomol extended his heartfelt gratitude to the Governor for his support in making the event a resounding success.
He acknowledged the Governor’s continued dedication to enhancing the lives of young people in West Pokot, particularly through sports and cultural initiatives.
“We are truly grateful to Governor Kachapin for his unwavering support, which played a key role in making today’s event a success,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration between county leadership and various departments to create meaningful opportunities for the region’s youth.
He expressed confidence that, with the Governor’s ongoing support, West Pokot will continue to thrive as a hub for youth development and cultural growth.
The team’s victory at the KICOSCA 2024 Men’s Football Final not only elevated West Pokot’s reputation on the regional sports scene but also reinforced the importance of supporting local talent and fostering growth through sports in the county.
By Agneta Chebet