In a dramatic finish to the MTN Kopu P’ubimu 7th edition, Jonam County emerged victorious, defeating defending champions Padyere County 1-0 in a tense final match held at Pacego Primary School, Pakwach District. The solitary goal from Samuel Rwothomio, scored in stoppage time, secured Jonam County their first title, dethroning last year’s champions.

The highly anticipated showdown saw both teams locked in a fierce battle, with Padyere, the 6th edition champions, defending resolutely. However, Rwothomio capitalized on a rare chance late in the game, sealing the win for Jonam County and sparking jubilant celebrations from their fans.

A Hard-Fought Victory

Jonam head coach Simon Peter praised his team’s perseverance, acknowledging the difficulty of breaking through Padyere’s solid defense. “We knew Padyere was a tricky side to handle, so we focused on defending and attacking with purpose. We created several chances in the first half, but Padyere’s goalkeeper made some fantastic saves,” Peter said. “In the end, luck was on our side in stoppage time.”

With the win, Jonam County walked away with UGX 4 million and the coveted MTN Kopu P’ubimu Cup, while Padyere, who finished as runners-up, were awarded UGX 2 million. Okoro County, the third-place team, received UGX 500,000 for their efforts.

Bicycle Races: Father-Son Rivalry Revived

The final day of the tournament also featured the MTN-Ker Alur 3rd edition of bicycle races, which drew significant attention. Female riders competed in a 15km race, while the men tackled a 25km course. Jenety Acibu from Jonam County emerged as the women’s champion, pocketing UGX 1.5 million. She was followed by Charity Andhu from Padyere, who took home UGX 700,000, and Consulate Monokuma from Padyere, who claimed UGX 300,000.

In the men’s race, a unique father-son rivalry took center stage as Anthony Keruneka and his son Justine Opakrwoth claimed first and second place, respectively. Anthony, the father, secured the top spot, while his son Justine settled for second. Stephen Jacwicongeo of Padyere finished third, continuing his strong showing after having won the race in 2018, when he defeated his father in a memorable competition.

“I started riding a bicycle when I was 7 years old, and it’s become our family’s source of livelihood,” said Opakrwoth, reflecting on his journey from childhood cyclist to champion.

MTN’s Continued Support for Ker Alur

Speaking at the event, Phillips Odoi, MTN’s Commercial Head Officer, praised Ker Alur for uniting youth through sports and fostering a strong relationship with MTN. “We appreciate the warm reception from the community. Through these activities, we are tapping into new business opportunities while building stronger bonds with Ker Alur,” Odoi said.

He encouraged the winners to invest their prize money wisely to improve their livelihoods. “We are committed to identifying areas within Ker Alur where MTN can continue to make a positive impact,” Odoi added.

A Tournament with a Message

Vincent Ochaya, Executive Director of Ker Alur, emphasized that this year’s MTN Kopu P’ubimu was not just about sports but also about raising awareness on key social issues affecting the youth. “The theme of this year’s edition was ‘Positive Parenting to End Child Marriages and Early Pregnancy.’ Sports provided the perfect platform to educate our youth on these important topics,” Ochaya explained.

He concluded by commending the youth for displaying discipline throughout the tournament, adding that it reflected well on the values of Alur culture. “All our sporting activities, which kicked off on September 7, 2024, were completed successfully, with our youth showing maximum discipline and respect for our traditions.”

The tournament’s grand finale set the stage for the upcoming 14th coronation anniversary of Ubimu Phillips Olarker Rauni III, which will take place on October 26, 2024, at Bar Omach, Pakwach District.