Harambee Stars defender Eric ' Marcelo ' Ouma has launched the Eric Marcelo Ouma Foundation ( EMOF) Super Eight inter-university tournament on Monday evening at a Nairobi hotel, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown among eight top universities this May.
Speaking in Nairobi during the three day event launch, Ouma, the tournament’s founder said that the initiative aims to transform the university football landscape, which he believes has long underperformed despite its immense potential.
“This inaugural Inter-Universities Football Tournament is more than a competition—it is a statement. A statement that we are ready to build and reimagine the journey of a Kenyan footballer,” said the Raków Częstochowa defender, emphasizing the importance of integrating education and sport within football.
The former AIK and Gor Mahia star also called for collective effort in growing the game.
“We do not claim to have all the answers, but we are here to be part of the solution. Everywhere I have played, one lesson has remained constant—football does not grow through lone efforts. No federation, player, or organization succeeds alone. The great footballing nations we admire today were built through collaboration—through many hands, many hearts, and a shared vision,” Ouma added.
Kenyatta University will host the competition, with KCA University, Strathmore University, St. Paul’s University, African International University, Kenya Methodist University, Mount Kenya University, and Zetech University all set to battle for top honors.
The three-day football fiesta will run from May 30 to June 1, kicking off with a group stage format.
The teams have been split into two pools: Group A features Kenyatta University, Strathmore University, Zetech University, and African International University, while Group B includes KCA University, St. Paul’s University, Kenya Methodist University, and Mount Kenya University.
The event was also graced by Kenyan international Anthony Akumu, who underscored the importance of universities partnering with Ouma’s foundation. While former AFC Leopards player and South Sudan international Saad Musa also echoed similar sentiments, praising Ouma’s vision.
The EMOF super eight football tournament has been praised by KCA University’s Head of Sports and Campus Recreation, Mike Kisaghi, an initiative that will see the winner take home Sh100,000, while the runners-up will receive Sh50,000.
