Cleo Malala Super Cup: Celebrating Local Talent Amidst Controversy Over Branding Choices

• A Success for Kenyan Football Marred by Branding Missteps

The Cleo Malala Super Cup has emerged as a resounding success, captivating fans both online and at the Mumias Complex. The tournament, organized by former Kakamega County Senator Cleo Malala, not only drew an impressive fan base but also garnered more sponsors than the top-tier Kenyan Premier League (KPL).

The meticulous planning and efficient officiating of the tournament have been widely applauded, showcasing a masterclass in event organization. However, amid the accolades, a debate has been sparked over the branding choices made during the event.

While the decision to brand the field with UDA (United Democratic Alliance) colors may have political significance, it has ignited a conversation about the role of sports in Kenya as a unifying factor. The traditionally apolitical space of sports may risk being overshadowed by political affiliations, potentially altering the unifying nature that sports have maintained in the country.

One particularly contentious issue revolves around the branding of the final jerseys. Critics argue that the choice to adopt jerseys from foreign teams and rebrand them for the Cleo Malala Super Cup final undermines the opportunity to showcase Kenya’s national identity. Instead of featuring messages that resonate with the local audience, such as “Visit Kenya,” “Visit Mumias,” or “Visit Kakamega,” the jerseys prominently display “Visit Rwanda.”

This departure from promoting national identity and local talent raises concerns about the true essence of tournaments like the Cleo Malala Super Cup. Such events should be a platform for celebrating Kenya’s sports culture, fostering a sense of pride, and highlighting the prowess of local athletes.

The call to limit the age of participants to 20 adds another layer to the discourse. Advocates argue that restricting the tournament to younger players aligns with its purpose of spotting and nurturing emerging talents. This move would provide a platform for the youth to showcase their skills and potentially pave the way for future stars in Kenyan football.

The tournament’s climax saw Lirhembe Arsenal from Ikolomani securing victory over Kona Rangers from Likuyani, claiming the coveted Cleo Malala Super Cup and a substantial cash prize of 3 million Kenyan Shillings. The triumph of Lirhembe Arsenal underscores the potential of local talent and the significance of tournaments like these in promoting grassroots football.

While the Cleo Malala Super Cup has undeniably showcased the vibrancy of Kenyan football, the controversies surrounding branding choices underscore the delicate balance between sports and politics. Organizers and stakeholders should engage in open dialogue to ensure that future tournaments remain true to their purpose of celebrating Kenya’s sports culture and nurturing local talent. As the event gains momentum, it becomes increasingly crucial to preserve the essence of sports as a unifying force that transcends political affiliations.