Makadara aspirant Geoffrey Wauna wins hearts after rewarding football teams with Sh500,000

The cheers came fast, the goals followed, and by the time the final whistle was blown, Maziwa FC had emerged champions of a football tournament that brought together young talent and residents from across Makadara.

Maziwa FC scored four goals against Maringo United Youth, who finished with two, to lift the title in a lively final held on Sunday, August 30, 2026.

Makadara MP aspirant Geoffrey “Pedeshe” Wauna was at the centre of the celebrations, awarding the teams and recognising the young players who had taken part in the tournament.

The top two teams had to settle the contest through a penalty shootout, adding another layer of drama to a tournament that had kept local football fans engaged.

Mbotela finished with three goals, while Gava FC scored two.

Backing talent in Makadara

Beyond the final score, the tournament offered Wauna an opportunity to push a message that has increasingly featured in his engagement with Makadara residents: that young people need practical support and platforms to showcase their abilities.

The winning team received Sh200,000, with the runners-up taking home Sh150,000. The third-placed team received Sh100,000, while the fourth-placed side walked away with Sh50,000.

For local players, the financial rewards provided more than recognition. They offered an immediate incentive to keep participating in sport and developing their talent.

Wauna’s presence at the final also gave him an opportunity to interact with residents away from the usual political rallies, putting community activity and youth empowerment at the centre of his engagement.

It is an approach that could prove significant in a constituency where politics is often shaped as much by grassroots connections as by big campaign events.

Political momentum builds

The football tournament comes as Wauna’s political profile continues to attract attention ahead of the 2027 General Election, with the aspirant seeking to unseat incumbent Makadara MP George Aladwa.

A recent Mwelekeo Insights opinion poll placed Wauna at the top of the Makadara race with 42.6 per cent support among respondents.

Faith Norah Lukosi followed closely with 42 per cent, while Aladwa was third at 9.1 per cent. The poll was based on 1,359 responses.

An opinion poll is not an election result, but the figures provide an indication of the attention surrounding Wauna’s bid and the competitiveness of the race.

His strategy of maintaining visibility through grassroots activities, including sports, gives him a direct platform to engage residents while building recognition beyond traditional political meetings.

A different campaign approach

For Wauna, Sunday’s tournament was therefore about more than handing over trophies and prize money.

It was about showing up for a community activity, celebrating young people and putting resources behind local talent.

The message was simple: Makadara’s young people should not only be spoken about during campaigns; they should be supported throughout the journey.

As the 2027 race takes shape, Wauna’s continued investment in grassroots activities could become an important part of his political identity.

And after a tournament that ended with goals, penalties and substantial cash prizes, his supporters will hope the momentum on the football pitch can translate into momentum at the ballot box.