Kamukunji United, Fearless Ladies crowned Mbugua Cup 2025 champions

Kamukunji United and Fearless Ladies emerged champions of the 2025 Simon Mbugua Cup men’s and women’s categories, respectively - 2025 edition.

Kamukunji United sealed the men’s title after edging out Kapsambo FC 5–3 on penalties following a tightly contested 1–1 draw in regulation time on Friday.

Coached by Hussein Bebila, Kamukunji showed composure under pressure to clinch the trophy in a match attended by several leaders and football stakeholders, including tournament sponsor Hon. Simon Mbugua and former Nairobi County Governor Mike 'Sonko' Mbuvi.

“This was a very competitive match. Both teams started strongly and pushed for early goals,” said Bebila after the final. “Our objective was to win the tournament, and I am proud the players delivered. The top prize will go a long way in supporting the team and the wider Kamukunji community, especially in easing transport during league matches.”

In the women’s final, Fearless Ladies produced a spirited comeback to defeat Moreno United 2–1. Moreno United took the lead in the second half through Sharon Kemuma, but Fearless responded decisively, with Rinket Ganta spearheading the turnaround to secure the title. Head coach Ibrahim Kassim credited tactical adjustments for the victory.

“After conceding, I knew we could still change the game,” Kassim said. “We altered our approach from the first half, and the players executed the plan perfectly. Winning the tournament and receiving a vehicle is a huge motivation for the team.”

In the mothers’ category, Kiambiu Grannies claimed the title after edging Lioness Grannies 1–0 in the final, capping off an entertaining competition that drew strong community support.

Individual excellence was also recognized during the tournament. Byron Omondi of Kiambiu Warriors was named Most Valuable Player (MVP), and Salim Abdulqafur of Eastleigh Youth finished as the top scorer. At the same time, Andersen Mayende of Kiambiu Warriors won the Best Goalkeeper award. Each received a cash prize of Sh10,000.

The Simon Mbugua Cup, now firmly established as a major grassroots football platform in Nairobi, was sponsored by former Kamukunji Member of Parliament and former East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member Hon. Simon Mbugua, who currently serves as Chairman of the Policyholders Compensation Fund (PCF).

Mbugua used the tournament to reaffirm his commitment to youth empowerment through sports and community development.

Political undertones were also evident, with allies indicating that Hon. Mbugua is preparing to contest the Kamukunji parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election. The tournament, they say, reflects his continued engagement with the constituency, particularly the youth and women, through sport-driven social impact initiatives.

Champions Kamukunji United walked away with a 33-seater matatu, runners-up Kapsambo FC received a 14-seater Nissan, while third-placed Kiambiu Warriors were awarded an Uber minivan.

In the women’s category, Fearless Ladies received an Uber minivan, Moreno United were awarded two motorcycles, and third-placed Pro Legends received one motorcycle. In the mothers’ category, winners Kiambiu Grannies took home Sh500,000, second-placed Lioness Grannies received Sh250,000, while California True Grannies, who finished third, were awarded Sh100,000.

The 2025 edition of the Simon Mbugua Cup once again highlighted the growing influence of grassroots football in Nairobi, blending competitive sport with tangible rewards and reinforcing its role as a tool for community development and social cohesion.