The Football Kenya Federation,FKF Vihiga branch League got a boost of Kshs.1.1 million sponsorship from area Senator Geoffrey Osotsi.
While launching the league at Hamisi playground, Osotsi noted that the championship is aimed at improving the football standards alongside tap talent at the grassroot
Osotsi also handed out playing kits and footballs to clubs that will be participating in the league.
“Vihiga is a county rich with talent and the decision by the federation to launch the league has come at the right time that is why I was motivated to put money into the initiative that would support most youths,” said Osotsi.
Osotsi called on youths to take advantage of the league and join participating clubs to expose their talent.
He called for prudent management of clubs in the league noting that they were key to exposing players who would advance their careers after being tapped by top tier clubs.
Thirty-six teams will participate in the eight months competition whose matches will be played in different sports grounds spread across the county.
Of the 36 teams, 24 are men football clubs while the remaining 12 are women teams.
Branch Chairman Michael Senelwa said a total of 364 matches for the men teams will be played while women games will 132.
Eighteen matches will be played every weekend during the eight months.
During the launch at Hamisi Grounds, Cyprus FC silenced Dragon FC 4-0 in a thrilling opener.
Hamisi Legends FC and Boda Boda FC settled for a barren draw in another league match.
More matches will be played this weekend beginning Friday, April 4.
Senelwa said the FKF Vihiga County League is expected to be a game-changer for aspiring footballers.
“It will offer young footballers opportunities to develop their skills, compete at a higher level and potentially secure spots in the national leagues,” Senelwa said.
“This league is not just about football. It’s about giving our youth the opportunity to dream big and aspire for greatness. By building a sustainable football culture here, we aim to not only produce top-tier footballers but also boost the county’s social and economic development,” Senator Osotsi stated.
The league will include a series of competitive matches involving local clubs and community teams, with the Senator saying the top teams will take part in Osotsi Cup at the end of the year.
