By Reuben Olita -Busia
Busia County tug-of-war teams have issued a strong warning to their rivals ahead of the 4th Edition of the Kenya Tug of War Association (KETWA) National League set for May at Masinde Gardens in Kakamega.
The Busia Grade 1 National Coach and Judge, Itubo Solomon revealed that the team is focused on correcting past mistakes and asserting dominance in the upcoming competition.
Lessons from Nairobi Showdown
During the 3rd edition of the league held at ABSA Club in Nairobi on April 18, 2026, Busia showcased impressive performance, signalling their intent to compete at the top tier nationally.
However, Itubo admitted that weight management—especially in the women’s team—was a major setback.
“We are working on mistakes in weight management. The ladies were underweight by between 70–90kgs against the required 680kgs for a team of eight. We may recruit players who meet the threshold,” he said.
Tactical Fixes for Men’s Team
The men’s team also faced technical challenges despite strong performances. Busia now aims to refine tactics ahead of anticipated clashes with regional rivals from Kisumu and Kakamega.
Itubo expressed confidence:
“We are going to stamp our authority and confirm we are the best in county games.”
Rivalries Heating Up
Busia teams are preparing for intense encounters within the Lake Basin region. The women’s team has boldly promised to outclass Kakamega on their home ground.
In previous matches, Busia men:
Secured wins against Equity Bank, ABSA Bank, Kenya Prisons, Nyandarua, and Laikipia
Benefited from a walkover after Kisumu City failed to show up
Lost only to GSU and KDF Operators
The no-show by Kisumu City was criticized by Busia officials as “sports cowardice.”
Current League Standings (After 3rd Edition)
Men:
KDF ASOB Gilgil – 22 pts
GSU Headquarters – 20 pts
GSU Flies – 15 pts
ABSA Bank & Busia – 13 pts
Ladies:
Kakamega – 9 pts
Busia – 6 pts
ABSA Bank – 3 pts
Equity Bank – 0 pts
Strategic Plan Driving Success
Busia joined the KETWA league in 2022 as part of a five-year strategic plan ending in 2027. The plan is already bearing fruit:
One championship title
Two bronze medal finishes
Defending EALASCA champions (Kampala 2025)
Key initiatives include:
Hiring elite coach Patrick Omollo
Securing support from Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma and Sports CECM Paul Olunga Ekwenye
Youth-focused recruitment (average age: 24–25 years)
Eyes on KICOSCA and Beyond
Busia is using the KETWA league as a build-up to the KICOSCA Games scheduled for August, possibly in Kilifi.
The county is targeting:
Gold medals in both men’s and women’s categories
Reclaiming the inter-county title last won in 2024
Improving on their 2025 runner-up finish
“We are 99% ready to reclaim the inter-county title,” the coach affirmed.
Regional Dominance in Sight
With momentum on their side, Busia teams are confident of defending their EALASCA crown and representing Kenya again—potentially in Uganda.
“We are consolidating our supremacy. 2026 is our year of trophies,” Itubo concluded.
