What Happened
Vihiga Cranes FC, the football team from Vihiga Friends High School, have been crowned Safaricom Chapa Dimba Season 5 Western Region Men's champions after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Musokoto Secondary School of Busia County.
The final was played on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at Masinde Muliro Stadium in Kanduyi, Bungoma County, as part of the Western Regional Finals held from August 15–16.
The win secures Vihiga Cranes a place at the national Chapa Dimba finals, where they will compete against regional champions from across Kenya for a chance to represent the country at the Gothia Cup in Sweden.
Official Response
Vihiga Governor Dr. Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo, who attended the finals alongside Bungoma Governor Kenneth Makelo Lusaka, congratulated the young players for their outstanding performance.
Governor Ottichilo urged the team to remain focused, disciplined and committed as they prepare to represent the Western Region at the national competitions. He also commended Safaricom PLC for providing a platform that continues to identify, nurture and expose young football talent across the region.
The governor pledged his continued support to Vihiga Cranes as they prepare for the next stage of the competition.
Safaricom has not yet released a full statement on the regional finals results, but tournament organisers confirmed that the winning boys' and girls' teams each receive KSh250,000 and advance to the National Finals.
Why This Matters
The victory marks a major achievement for young footballers in Vihiga County, who have now earned the opportunity to compete on the national stage. For many of the players, the tournament provides exposure to scouts, coaches and potential scholarship opportunities.
- Winner: Vihiga Cranes FC (Vihiga Friends High School)
- Final Score: 1–0 vs Musokoto Secondary School (Busia)
- Venue: Masinde Muliro Stadium, Kanduyi, Bungoma
- Prize: KSh250,000 + National Finals qualification
- Next Stage: National Finals → Gothia Cup (Sweden)
Chapa Dimba has become one of Kenya's most prestigious youth football platforms, offering pathways to professional academies, national teams and international tournaments. The Gothia Cup in Sweden, often called the "Youth World Cup," attracts teams from over 80 countries.
Vihiga's success also demonstrates the county's growing investment in youth sports and talent development, with Governor Ottichilo's administration previously pledging support for local teams and sports infrastructure.
Community Impact or Background Context
Vihiga Cranes entered the Western Regional Finals after winning the Vihiga County title, where they defeated defending champions Ebwali Boys 1–0 in the county finals.
In the semi-finals, Vihiga Cranes beat Bungoma's Terem FC 1–0 to book their place in the championship decider.
The Western Regional Finals brought together four boys' and four girls' teams from Busia, Vihiga, Bungoma and Kakamega counties. Other participating teams included Terem FC (Bungoma), Musokoto Secondary School (Busia), and Green Buffaloes (Kakamega).
In the girls' category, Lugari Progressive Academy of Kakamega County emerged champions after defeating Elgon Queens of Bungoma County. Chakol Queens of Busia, who had defeated Vihiga's Blue Commandos 3–1 in the semi-finals, finished as runners-up.
The victories in both categories highlighted the growing pool of young football talent across Western Kenya, with all participating counties producing competitive teams.
Safety & Prevention
As youth football gains prominence, organisers and stakeholders should continue to prioritise player safety and welfare. Important measures include:
- ensuring proper medical coverage during tournaments;
- providing adequate hydration and rest periods for players;
- enforcing fair play and disciplinary rules;
- protecting young players from exploitation and ensuring age verification;
- offering counselling and mentorship for participants.
- Balance sports with education and personal growth.
- Ensure age verification to protect young players.
- Provide mentorship and counselling programmes.
- Enforce strict fair play and disciplinary standards.
Parents and schools should also encourage young athletes to balance sports with education and personal development.
What Happens Next
Vihiga Cranes FC will now prepare for the national Chapa Dimba finals, where they will face regional champions from other parts of Kenya. The national tournament is expected to be held later in 2026, with dates and venues to be announced by Safaricom and tournament organisers.
The winning national teams will earn the opportunity to represent Kenya at the Gothia Cup in Sweden, a prestigious international youth football tournament.
Governor Ottichilo has pledged continued support for the team, and the County Government may provide additional resources for training, equipment and travel as the players prepare for the national stage.
Share Your Thoughts
We would like to hear from you.
- What does this victory mean for youth football in Vihiga County?
- How can the county and private sector support young athletes to reach the next level?
- Who is your standout player from Vihiga Cranes FC's campaign?
For official updates or emergency assistance, residents are advised to contact the relevant authorities.