Lanet Chronicles
Kicks for Change: How a Football Derby in Lanet
Became a Beacon of Hope for Young
Women
Attendees of Rotaract Club of Menengai Football tournament at Beef field
By Alex Njagi
The cheers echoed across Beef Field. Football boots thudded against the dusty ground. Laughter danced in the afternoon air. But on Sunday, May 31, 2026, the beautiful game was about far more than goals and trophies. It was about hope.
More than 100 young women gathered at Beef Field in Lanet for a football tournament organized by the Rotaract Club of Menengai in partnership with the Kenya Red Cross. What appeared to be an ordinary football derby quickly transformed into a powerful platform for empowerment, mental health advocacy, and community development.
As teams battled for glory on the pitch, another important conversation was taking place off the field—one centered on mental wellness, self-care, and the courage to seek help when life becomes overwhelming.
"We believe that when young people are actively involved in sports and community activities, they are less likely to engage in destructive behaviours," explained Wanjiku Ngure, a leader of the Rotaract Club of Menengai.
Her words reflected the spirit of the day. Every pass, every tackle, and every cheer from the sidelines represented more than competition. It represented opportunity. Opportunity for young women to connect, learn, and grow.
Beyond football, participants attended awareness sessions on mental health and menstrual hygiene. Four counsellors from the Kenya Red Cross were present throughout the event, offering guidance and creating safe spaces where the young women could openly discuss challenges affecting their lives.
Collins, one of the Red Cross volunteers on the ground, emphasized the organization's commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals.
"We are always ready to respond to any needy case within and beyond the country," he said. "The girls had an opportunity to speak with counsellors, ask questions, and learn that help is available whenever they need it."
Umoja Starlet Women's Football Club receives their tournament win proceeds
He also highlighted the Red Cross toll-free helpline, 1199, which provides support to young people facing mental health challenges.
For many participants, the availability of professional counsellors was one of the event's greatest strengths. Mental health remains a topic many young people struggle to discuss openly, often due to stigma and fear of judgment.
Mr. Kelvin, a Rotaract leader and photographer from Naivasha, noted that the helpline serves everyone in the community, including those who may be uncomfortable speaking face-to-face.
"Even those who are shy can use the service," he said. "The important thing is that nobody should suffer in silence."
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As the tournament progressed, excitement continued to build. Teams displayed remarkable skill, determination, and teamwork. When the final whistle blew, Umoja Starlets emerged victorious, earning the tournament trophy amid jubilant celebrations.
Their victory was rewarded with a trophy, a complete set of uniforms, two footballs, training markers, and sanitary towels. Every participant also received sanitary towels, reinforcing the organizers' commitment to promoting menstrual hygiene and supporting the well-being of the girl child.
For Coach Kibugi from Bahati Sub-County, the event represented something bigger than football. "This tournament has opened doors for many women in Bahati and Nakuru County," he said. "When more women join football and community activities, inclusion is enhanced. We can save more young people from drugs, crime, and early pregnancies."
One player echoed these sentiments, describing the derby as an eye-opening experience that helped participants better understand mental health and the importance of seeking support when needed.
Rotaract Clubs across Kenya continue to demonstrate the power of youth-led service. As part of Rotary International's District 9212, which includes Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Eritrea, these clubs are increasingly using innovative approaches to address social challenges while empowering young people to become agents of change.
On this sunny afternoon in Lanet, football was the attraction. But the lasting victory was something far greater.
It was the victory of awareness over silence. The victory of support over isolation. And the victory of community over despair.
As the dust settled on Beef Field and the champions lifted their trophy high above their heads, one message remained clear: when communities come together, every goal scored can become a step toward a healthier, safer, and more hopeful future.
