Busia Women’s Football Tournament Launched to Combat GBV

BUSIA, Kenya – Catherine Omanyo, the Women Representative of Busia, has initiated a football tournament for girls as part of a 16-day campaign against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the county. This groundbreaking event, which marks the first-ever women’s tournament in Busia, aims to use sports as a means of advocacy and empowerment in the fight against GBV.

According to Kenya News Agency, data from the Kenya Demographic Health Survey (KDHS) in 2009 revealed that nearly 40% of Kenyan women experience violence from the age of 15, with Western Kenya reporting the highest rates. The tournament, which attracted 32 teams across Busia, was held concurrently in all seven constituencies. The best teams from each sub-county will advance to the county finals, scheduled for December 3rd at Malaba Stadium.

The local National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) office supported the teams by providing uniforms and training kits. During the tournament, notable performances included the victory of Soccer Sisters, who became Funyula Constituency Champions after defeating Hakati Queens in penalties following a 1-1 draw. In Teso North constituency, Kamuriai FC emerged victorious, beating Aboloi FC in the finals at Malaba Stadium.

The tournament’s primary goal, as outlined by Omanyo, is to form a team known as Busia Queen, which will represent the county in the FKF women’s league next year. This initiative is a shift from the traditional focus on men’s football, providing equal opportunities for women to demonstrate their talents.

The program goes beyond mere participation in sports. It integrates a curriculum on violence against women and girls into regular football sessions for both genders, aged 10 to 20. This approach enables local coaches to work with young people, exploring attitudes towards gender and developing skills such as teamwork, fair play, self-confidence, and respect.

Funyula Gender Police Officer Mang’eni Moses highlighted the tournament’s potential to challenge gender stereotypes, especially in a sport traditionally seen as male-dominated. By involving both male and female coaches and players, the initiative aims to influence societal attitudes, educate on GBV rights and redress, and empower victims and survivors.

The upcoming finals at Malaba Stadium promise to be a showcase of talent and a step towards forming comprehensive county teams.