Kenyan football teams are set to showcase their talents at the inaugural World Sports Health (WSH) Elite Cup tournaments in Port El Kantaoui, Tunisia, from 9-15 December and 15-22 December.
The prestigious event aims to identify and nurture young football talents across various age groups, from U-7 to U-17.
Kenya has secured six team slots in each of the six age categories, showcasing the country’s commitment to youth football development.
The Kenyan contingent will be led by notable tacticians, including former Harambee Starlets full-back Betty ‘Titi’ Achieng and Harambee Stars midfielder Osborne Monday. Uganda, with five slots, will also be a strong contender in the tournament.
The WSH Elite Cup will feature participation from other African football powerhouses, including Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, Algeria, Ivory Coast, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and South Africa.
Additionally, a guest team from Dubai will join the competition, highlighting the event’s international appeal.
The tournament is divided into two phases, with the first batch of 15 teams competing from 9-15 December, followed by the remaining group from 15-22 December. In total, 30 teams will vie for glory in Tunisia.
In a significant development for Kenyan football, the tournament organizers have awarded Kenya the hosting rights for the fourth edition of the WSH Elite Cup in 2027. This decision aligns with Kenya’s bid to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) that same year.
Tunisia Ambassador to Kenya, Ben Youssef, expressed his excitement about the upcoming tournament during its launch in Nairobi.
“We welcome players from Kenya and across the globe to take part in this tournament. They will have a chance to be scouted and their careers taken to the next level,” Youssef said. He also assured participants of timely visa assistance and adequate security during the event.
Youssef highlighted the cultural and historical opportunities that await participants in Tunisia.
“The tournament will also be a good opportunity for teams to discover Tunisia and its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, including cruise shipping, visiting the oldest synagogue in Africa, and other fascinating historical sites,” he added.
Tournament Director Evans Chief emphasized the significance of the event. “This exciting event will be held in the beautiful harbor of Port El Kantaoui amidst stunning landscapes, highlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
The tournament aims to provide a remarkable platform for young football enthusiasts to showcase their skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship,” he stated.
Jubilee Insurance Financial Manager Joel Korir hinted at their Soccer Academy’s participation in the tournament, aligning with Kenya’s Vision 2030 of exporting talents.
“We are supporting this event because football is the most-watched sport in the whole world. Our other mission in this contest is to promote financial literacy among players,” Korir noted.
Kevin Akumu, Founder of the Nairobi International Cup, expressed his foundation’s support for the WSH Elite Cup.
“This event is great. It is linking both the North and East of Africa. Also, as we know, Kenya has produced a Champions League winner and an English Premier League player. We strongly believe the next McDonald Mariga, the next Victor Wanyama, or the next Michael Olunga are already somewhere with our coaches across the country,” Akumu said.
As Kenyan teams prepare for the Tunisia challenge, the WSH Elite Cup promises to be a memorable event, offering young footballers a platform to shine and potentially launch their careers on the international stage.
