The second edition of Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU) North Rift Sports for Peace Tournament officially kicked off today in Chemolingot, Baringo County. The colorful opening ceremony was presided over jointly by the Commander OMU and Commandant, General Service Unit (GSU), marking the start of three days of intense competition and unity-building activities.
Themed “Run, Dance, Play and Pray for Peace,” the tournament brings together communities from across the North Rift to foster peace, reconciliation, and social cohesion through sports and cultural exchange. It is set to take place across various venues including Chesirimion, Chemolingot, Nginyang, Cheptunoyo, Kapedo and Chemoril.
This year’s competition will feature athletics, football, and volleyball matches spread across seven venues in Baringo and Turkana Counties. Twenty eight (28) teams, including youth, women, and men’s groups, are expected to showcase their talents while championing peaceful coexistence.
Speaking during the kick off, the Commander OMU, Brigadier Alex Kiraguri highlighted the role of the tournament in reinforcing the collective commitment towards ending insecurity in the region.
“By running, dancing, playing, and praying together, we are making a strong statement that peace is the greatest victory we can achieve,” he remarked.
He also emphasised on the need for youth to take advantage of the tournament to make friends across all the counties involved.
On his part, the GSU Commandant, Mr. Ranson Lolmodooni, underscored the importance of sports as a tool for building trust and bridging divides among communities that have faced challenges of conflict.
“Sports for Peace is not about competition; it is about bringing people together, celebrating diversity, and creating a spirit of unity,” he noted.
Residents and local organizations expressed optimism that the event will strengthen community bonds and inspire a culture of peaceful coexistence long after the final day.
The tournament will culminate with finals on 23rd August, where teams shall be united to play a uniquely unified final.
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