The curtain came down today on the four-day Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU) North Rift Sports for Peace Tournament, with a colourful closing ceremony graced by Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, as the Chief Guest.
Also present were Governor Wisley Rotich of Elgeyo Marakwet, Governor Benjamin Cheboi of Baringo, as well as representatives from the other four North Rift counties, underscoring a strong message of regional unity in pursuit of peace.
The security sector was led by OMU Commander, Brig. Alex Kiraguri, and Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service, Mr. Gilbert Masengeli, alongside other senior security leaders.
The tournament drew over 1,000 athletes who competed in athletics, football, volleyball, and dance. Beyond the thrill of competition, participants engaged in peace talks designed to foster understanding, create lasting memories, and strengthen friendships across diverse communities.
The highlight of the day was the football final between KDF and Kaben FC from Elgeyo Marakwet, which thrilled fans to the very end. After a tense draw in regulation and extra time, the penalty shootout stretched so long that the planning committee declared it an official tie—symbolic of the shared victory for peace and community cohesion.
Adding colour to the celebrations were cultural dance troupes from six counties, who showcased the richness of traditional art as another unifying thread beyond sports.
Speaking during the ceremony, CS Murkomen commended the initiative, noting that such events foster reconciliation, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging among communities. He warned against the proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition, stressing the government’s unwavering resolve to restore lasting peace in the region.
The week-long tournament was coordinated by the OMU multi-agency security team, working in close partnership with community-led organizations including Interpeace, the Children for Peace Initiative (CPI), the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), among others.
The OMU North Rift Sports for Peace Tournament has not only strengthened bonds between communities and security agencies but also reaffirmed that peace is attainable when unity and collaboration take center stage.
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