Wangari Warriors will go down in history books as the champions of the first-ever Empower Mchezaji tournament held on Saturday, 19 July, at the serene Mashuuru Complex in Kajiado County.The tournament, which brought together 12 teams, was organized by football advocate and media personality Nana Owiti. The teams were united by a cause bigger than sport, as the tournament aimed at creating a safe, inclusive space for women in football while raising awareness on critical social issues, including gender-based violence, early marriages, and systemic barriers that continue to hinder female athletes’ careers.##NAJAVA_MECA_9023941##Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More NewsThe choice of the location, Mashuuru, nestled away from the city’s noise, was also intentional. It offered players, many currently in their offseason, an opportunity to reset, reconnect with nature, and reflect on their journey both on and off the pitch.The one-day tournament was played in a 7-a-side format, with each team comprising six female players and just one male player, to symbolize the balance and inclusivity the tournament aimed to achieve.Tusker FC defender out to fulfill boyhood dreams with Harambee StarsThe teams were creatively named after iconic Kenyan women who have left an indelible mark across various sectors, among them environmentalist Wangari Maathai, triple Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon, diplomat and activist Orie Rogo Manduli, and the late volleyball legend Janet Wanja.Wangari Warriors had a rocky start, falling 2-1 to Chelagat Warriors in their opening match.But they quickly found their rhythm, thrashing Wanja Waves 4-0 to finish their pool stage on a high.In the semifinals, the Warriors overcame Obiri Starlets 2-0 to set up a final showdown against Chelagat Warriors, who had eliminated Orie Rogo Falcons 2-1.EXCLUSIVE: From ball boy to Harambee Stars, Haniff Wesonga’s relentless rise and European dreamThe final was a tightly contested affair that ended 1-1 in regular time, but Wangari Warriors held their nerve in the penalty shootouts to claim a 2-1 victory and the inaugural title.Their Warriors squad featured some of the most notable names in Kenyan football, including Yanga SC’s Duke Abuya, Corazon Aquino, Diana Wacera, Fasila Adhiambo, and Faith Mboya.London DL: Teenage sensation Koech break 24-year record in dominant victoryReflecting on the tournament’s success, a visibly emotional Owiti told Mozzart Sport that the event was a manifestation of a long-held dream.“What inspired me to host this tournament is the void. I’ve been attending women’s matches, and I saw the gap. As an influencer with a platform, I wanted to use it to bring change,” she said.She credited her roots, noting that one of the founders of Ulinzi Starlets is her aunt a connection that sparked her deep passion for women’s football.KCB rope in 5 players in rigorous rebuild ahead of new season“People from Kajiado showed up and embraced the idea; it was beautiful. Next time, we’ll have more time to prepare and bring sponsors on board. It’s no longer just a dream; it’s something tangible,” she continued.Looking ahead, Owiti plans to make the next edition even bigger.“I want the players who fight for the badge to feel seen. This was not just a tournament; it was healing, a community, and a celebration all in one. I was made for this,” she concluded.Kenyan academy suffers semi-final defeat in Swedish Gothia CupGroup stage results:Pool A:Chelagat Warriors 2-1 Wangari WarriorsWanja Waves 1-0 Nyiva ChampsChelagat Warriors 0-0 Wanja WavesNyiva Champs 0-0 Wangari WarriorsWangari Warriors 4-0 Wanja WavesChelagat Warriors 0-1 Nyiva ChampsMasud Juma included in Harambee Stars 25-man travelling squad to TanzaniaPool B:Karua Queens 1-2 Kipyegon StrikersOrie Rogo Falcons 2-0 Obiri StarletsObiri Starlets 2-1 Karua QueensKipyegon Strikers 1-0 Orie Rogo FalconsKarua Queens 0-2 Orie Rogo FalconsObiri Starlets 3-0 Kipyegon StrikersHarambee Stars midfielder completes loan move to Polish championsSemifinals:Wangari Warriors 2-0 Obiri StarletsChelagat Warriors 2-1 Orie Rogo FalconsFinal:Wangari Warriors 1-1 Chelagat Warriors(Wangari won 2-1 on penalties)Reasons behind AFC Leopards decision to reappoint Namai as CEO
