It was a clean sweep for Trans Nzoia as Kitale Media Teams stamped their authority at the Safaricom 5-aside Rift Valley Regional Tournament held on Sunday at the Kip Keino Arena, Eldoret.

In an all-Kitale final, Kitale Media Team A edged out Team B with a hard-fought 2-1 win to be crowned the champions. Mike Sikoyo and Zewede found the back of the net for Team A, while Marvin Khayemba pulled one back for Team B in a thrilling showdown that had fans on their feet.

The winners walked away with KES 50,000, while the first runners-up bagged KES 30,000, alongside other exciting prizes including power banks and shopping vouchers.

Both Kitale sides earned their place in the final after hard-fought semi-final victories. Team A edged out Eldoret-based Daily Sports 1-0, while Team B overcame Hubz Media 2-1 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw.

“This was more than just a tournament, it was a reunion, a networking platform, and a celebration of our industry. Some of us hadn’t met in years, and Safaricom, through today’s tournament, gave us that opportunity. We got to connect, compete and celebrate our craft,” said Emmanuel Sabuni, captain of Daily Sports.

The tournament was part of Safaricom’s regional media engagement initiative and also served as a curtain-raiser for the M-PESA Sokoni Caravan Tour, which kicks off today in Turbo. The week-long activation is part of M-PESA @ 18 celebrations, where customers are set to win various gifts including cash prizes, shopping vouchers, merchandise, electronics, and other exciting surprises through the fan-favourite game, “M-PESA or the Box.”

Beyond the caravan, Safaricom has also organised numerous customer engagement initiatives geared towards capacity building, business growth and community empowerment. These include Safire Connect for business minded customers, Safaricom Hook for the youth, Launch of Ndoto Zetu phase 7 and M-Pesa Agents Awards, among others.