The second edition of the Mama Haki Peace Cup kicked off on Saturday at Mwahima Stadium in Likoni, marking the return of one of the region’s fastest-growing community football tournaments. Mombasa Nominated Senator Miraj Abdillahi officially launched the event under the Mama Haki Foundation.
This year’s competition has attracted 84 teams, 42 men’s teams and 42 women’s teams, making it one of the largest grassroots tournaments in the Coastal region. The launch event featured two exhibition matches, with Likoni All Starlets edging out Diani Queens 1–0 in the women’s match, while Likoni All Stars faced Kwale-based Denmak Maganyakulo in the men’s friendly.
Senator Miraj urged young people in Likoni and across Mombasa to use the holiday tournament as a platform to showcase their football skills and avoid idling in local hangout spots.
“Over 200 youths were reformed in the first edition. I believe these youths can change, and I will speak to them. To the police and elders, do not harass these youths when you see them on the roads because I am ready to carry their cross,” she said.
The senator also appealed to President William Ruto to prioritize the rehabilitation of Mombasa Stadium, which has remained in a dilapidated state despite Mombasa being Kenya’s second-largest city.
“It is a shame that the second-largest city in this country has no international stadium. We must have our own national stadium here, just as we see in Kisumu, Kakamega, and other parts of the country,” she added.
Miraj, who has announced her intention to contest the Likoni MP seat in 2027, said upgrading or constructing a stadium will be among her top development priorities.
Likoni Football Association Chairman Rashid Kogo welcomed the return of the Mama Haki Peace Cup, noting that Likoni has consistently proven to be a breeding ground for football talent.
“Likoni has always been a hub of talent not just in players but also in coaching. We must use this tournament to show that we have something valuable here,” he said.
Defending champions Kitaka (men) and Likoni Starlets (women) will be aiming to retain their titles as the competition progresses toward its December finals, where winners will receive trophies and cash prizes.
