By Prosper Gibolo
The inaugural edition of Ateker Cup of Nations has attracted 24 teams from the four countries of Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia and South Sudan.
Kenya has the highest number of teams, 12, followed by Uganda with 5 teams, Ethiopia 2 and south Sudan with one team.
Among the team presenting Kenya include Riverside FC, Napete Titans FC, Loyo FC, Earth Movers FC, Turkana North FC, Kalokol Rangers FC.
Others are Dynamic FC, Kaelosta FC, Desert Warriors FC, Kakuma United FC, Kauroi FC and Rivespur FC.
Teams from Uganda include; Agape Football Club Kotido Football Club and Karamoja Football Club from Karamoja sub-region, Katakwi FC and Ngora FC all from Teso sub-region.
Ethiopia is being represented by Ethiopia FC and Ehiopia Rangers FC while Kapweta FC is the only team from South Sudan participating in the highly contested tournament.
The tournament themed “Bridging Borders, Building Champions” is held at Lodwar Mixed primary school ground and will run from 18th till April 21st, 2025.
His Excellency Hon. Jeremiah Ekamais Lomorukai Napotikan, the government of Turkana County and the patron of the tournament said that the Ateker Cup of Nations tournament, recongises the invaluable role sports play in shaping the young people.
He added that the tournament is an opportunity for youth not only within Turkana but across the entire region to showcase their sporting talents.
Ekamais Lomorukai reiterated his commitment to regional integration and unity through strengthening ties with neighbouring communities, fostering peace, collaboration and mutual growth.
As leaders we should promote sports as a tool for social cohesion, regional unity and peace building in the Ateker communities.
Bernard Ocheng Oringa, the CEO Agape United Football Club told Etoil A Karamoja that his team is well prepared to participant in the tournament attracting various teams across Ateker community.
He said that this is an opportunity for his players to showcase their talent to clubs outside Karamoja.
According to him, Ateker Cup of Nations recongines the invaluable role sports in shaping the future of the young generation.
The format of the tournament will be a Gala system in which a club will have to play at least 2 matches in a day, with all matches to be played at Lodwar primary school playground.
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