By David Ndolo
The inaugural EMOF Super Eight inter-university football tournament has officially been launched, setting the stage for a competitive showdown among top Kenyan universities this May.
The tournament, an initiative of the Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma Foundation, was unveiled Monday evening at a Nairobi hotel, with organizers positioning it as a bold step toward revitalizing university football in Kenya.
Eight Universities, One Title
will host the three-day tournament, which will feature:
The competition will run from May 30 to June 1, kicking off with a group stage format.
- Group A: Kenyatta University, Strathmore University, Zetech University, African International University
- Group B: KCA University, St. Paul’s University, Kenya Methodist University, Mount Kenya University
A Vision Beyond Competition
Tournament founder , who currently plays for , said the initiative is about more than just football.
“This inaugural Inter-Universities Football Tournament is more than a competition—it is a statement. A statement that we are ready to build and reimagine the journey of a Kenyan footballer,” he said.
The former and defender emphasized the need for collaboration in growing the sport, noting that successful football nations are built through shared effort and vision.
Backing from Football Stakeholders
The launch drew support from key figures in Kenyan football, including , who praised the initiative for its potential to uncover hidden talent.
“It is an exciting move that will go a long way in exposing fine football talent that would otherwise go unnoticed,” said the midfielder.
Former player and South Sudan international also lauded the project, highlighting universities as untapped hubs for football talent.
KCA University’s Head of Sports, Mike Kisaghi, described the tournament as a timely intervention that could expand significantly in the coming years.
Prize and Future Prospects
The tournament winner will walk away with KSh 100,000, while the runners-up will receive KSh 50,000.
Organizers and stakeholders believe the EMOF Super Eight could mark the beginning of a new era for university football in Kenya, bridging the gap between education and professional sport while creating a sustainable talent pipeline.
As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on the participating universities to deliver a thrilling showcase of emerging football talent.
