Safaricom’s flagship youth tournament Safaricom Chapa Dimba is back and this time, it is not just a return, but a reinvention. The 5th edition of Chapa Dimba signals a shift toward a more competitive, tech-driven, and globally aligned pathway for young Kenyan footballers.
Since its launch in 2017, the tournament has grown into one of the most influential grassroots football platforms in the country, producing stars like Bryton Onyona Benson & Duncan Omalla, David Majak, Jentrix Shikangwa etc. It has bridged the gap between raw talent and professional opportunity, giving thousands of young players visibility in front of scouts and coaches. Now, Season 5 is taking that foundation to the next level.
At the heart of this new chapter is the message ‘Cheza Kama Wewe’ a call for self-expression, confidence, and empowerment among the youth. Safaricom is positioning Chapa Dimba not just as a tournament, but as a platform where identity, ambition, and opportunity intersect.
One of the most notable changes in Season 5 is the introduction of digital registration, marking a major step toward modernization and accessibility. Registration officially opens on 9th May, and for the first time, both teams and individual players can sign up. This is a significant departure from previous editions, where participation was strictly team-based. Now, players without full squads still have a pathway to be drafted in a team, a move designed to widen the talent net and ensure no promising player is left out.
The competition structure has also been refined for quality. Participation will be capped at 35,000 players, a deliberate decision to enhance competitiveness and scouting efficiency. The tournament will accommodate 1,600 teams (200 per region) and an additional 1,600 individual players, ensuring balanced representation across the country.
Equally significant is the shift in age eligibility. While the 4th edition allowed players aged 16 to 20, Season Five lowers the bracket to 15 to 18 years, aligning more closely with global youth development models. Safaricom has already signaled its long-term vision, with plans to further reduce the age bracket to 14 to 17 years by Season 6, emphasizing early talent identification and structured development.
Beyond the pitch, Season 5 introduces a strong technology and education component. In partnership with global football stakeholders, Safaricom is scaling the tournament to match international standards. This includes the integration of modern football technology such as AI-powered performance tracking vests, VEO cameras, and AI-assisted scouting tools. These innovations will not only enhance performance analysis but also provide players with data-driven insights ,a feature previously reserved for elite academies.
Additionally, the program will roll out a ‘training the trainers’ initiative, equipping coaches, scouts, and technical staff with the skills to effectively use these technologies. This ensures that the impact of Chapa Dimba extends beyond players, strengthening the entire grassroots football ecosystem.
The rewards structure remains equally compelling. Participants will have the chance to be selected for the prestigious All-Star Team, with top performers earning opportunities for international exposure. In a major highlight, standout players will travel to Sweden to compete in the globally renowned Gothia Cup, further cementing Chapa Dimba’s role as a gateway to the world stage.
From dusty pitches in rural counties to international arenas, Chapa Dimba’s journey mirrors the dreams of thousands of young players.
The launch of Chapa Dimba Season 5 is set for this Saturday, 9th May, at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium, Mamboleo in Kisumu, with a full slate of matches lined up for the day.
The tournament will kick off with girls’ football fixtures, setting the tone for the competition, before the action builds up to a thrilling Mashemeji Derby youth edition to close the day.
Here are the fixtures:
