Defending champions Obunga FC are approaching the 5th edition of Safaricom Chapa Dimba with confidence, hunger, and a growing belief that their success story is only beginning.

The Kisumu-based side has become one of the standout grassroots football projects in the country after rising from community football in Obunga informal settlement to winning both the regional and the national Chapa Dimba title in 2024. Now, with the new season set to kick off, attention has once again shifted to the defending champions and their ability to maintain their dominance.

Speaking to LTN Sports during training at their Obunga base, coach Evans Oketch revealed that the club has assembled another youthful but ambitious squad capable of competing for top honours again.

“I have a younger team again with some experience in the tournament. The young players must learn first and work hard for the tournament,” he explained.

Despite rebuilding parts of the squad following the departure of several key players to bigger clubs, confidence remains high within the camp. Obunga FC have watched former players make major career steps after using Chapa Dimba as a launchpad.

Teenage left back Brighton Onyona is now a regular starter for Gor Mahia, while Chapa Dimba MVP Armstrong Omondi earned a move to Kariobangi Sharks. Other former players such as George Ogutu now with MOFA side on verge of Kpl qualification have also progressed into elite football setups.

Coach Oketch believes these success stories are inspiring the current generation. “I have a boy called Brian in Tusker Youth and another at MOFA called George Ogutu. So I’m urging all teams to register for this tournament,” he said.

For Obunga FC, the upcoming exhibition clash against rivals Manyatta United during the launch festivities has already generated massive excitement among local fans. Popularly baptized The “Slum Derby,” the fixture carries deep neighbourhood pride.

Oketch made it clear that his side will not treat the match casually as an Exhibition match .

“As a coach, I expect a win from my side because I am well prepared for the tournament. I know that at the end of the day, we will emerge victorious,” he stated.

The coach also called on Kisumu football fans to turn up in large numbers and support local grassroots football.

“Obunga community have been supportive and I know they will come in large numbers to cheer us against Manyatta United. I want them to come and support their boys so that we can beat our arch rivals.

”Beyond competition, the coach praised Chapa Dimba for transforming grassroots football in Kenya and giving young players a pathway to professional football, he also applauded Safaricom donation that helped purchase a van

“What Chapa Dimba is doing is a very good thing because they are trying to showcase talent from the grassroots. I think after even two or three years we will have many players in the Kenya Premier League through Chapa Dimba, I also thank Safaricom , we used part of the cash reward from last edition prize money to purchase a vehicle that helps us in team logistics ” he said.

As the new season begins, Obunga FC carry not only the pressure of defending titles but also the hopes of a community that now believes football can create opportunity, identity, and lasting change.