NYAKACH, 30th December –As the country awaits the New Year, 2026, concerns over idle youth and rising insecurity often dominate conversations in Nyakach Constituency, a border area that has for years grappled with cattle rustling and cross-border crime.
On Tuesday, however, attention shifted from insecurity to sport as football brought together hundreds of residents in a show of unity and purpose.
The focus was the finals of the Raila Odinga Memorial Okoth Opande Cup, held at Urudi Primary School and sponsored by parliamentary aspirant Jonathan Okoth Opande.
The tournament, which began on November 24, attracted teams from across the constituency and was aimed at keeping young people constructively engaged during the holiday period.
The final lived up to expectations, with Sondu FC and Nyangweno FC locked in a tense battle that ended in a draw at full time. Sondu FC eventually emerged as champions after edging out their rivals in a penalty shootout, sparking celebrations among supporters who had turned out in large numbers.
Speaking at halftime and during the prize-giving ceremony, Opande said sports offer a practical solution to some of the social and security challenges facing the constituency.
“Our border location exposes us to frequent insecurity, and when young people are idle they can easily be drawn into cattle rustling and other harmful activities,” Opande said.
“By organising tournaments like this, we give them something positive to focus on, while also building unity and discipline.”
He noted that the competition had brought together youths from different villages, helping to break down long-standing barriers and foster peaceful interaction.
“When they play together, they learn teamwork, respect and coexistence,” he said.
“That spirit of togetherness is what helps our community stay away from drugs, crime and other practices that hold us back.”
Sondu FC received Sh100,000 in cash, along with football boots and a full set of playing uniforms for all players.
Nyangweno FC, who finished second, took home Sh75,000 plus boots and uniforms, while the third-placed team earned Sh50,000.
Opande said the prizes were meant to motivate young people to take sports seriously while recognising talent and good conduct.
The aspirant, who intends to contest the Nyakach parliamentary seat in 2027, also urged residents to view security as a shared responsibility between leaders and the community.
“We cannot leave everything to the government or security agencies,” he told the crowd.
“When we create opportunities for our youth and guide them well, we reduce the chances of them being used in cross-border conflicts or criminal activities.”
He revealed plans to grow the tournament in future editions and to introduce other sporting activities to reach more young people across the constituency.
“This cup is about more than winning matches,” Opande said.
“It is about giving our youth direction and building a peaceful, united Nyakach.”
Residents and local leaders praised the initiative, saying it highlighted the role of sports in promoting peace, cohesion and social transformation in a region that continues to face security challenges.
