On a vibrant Sunday afternoon, February 23, 2025, Dero FC faced a formidable challenge in their second meeting against AFC Leopards at the newly inaugurated Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium (JOOS) in Siaya. The electrifying encounter, part of the Mozzart Bet Cup Tournament, ended in a disappointing 1-3 defeat for Dero FC, marking their elimination from the competition. The first encounter was in 2017, when Dero FC suffered a loss of 15-1.
AFC Leopards, buoyed by goals from Masaba Julius, Captain Cliff Miheso, and Sydney Lokale, advanced confidently to the Round of 32. The match is the second hosted at the 20,000-capacity stadium since its official opening on January 2, 2025, in a ceremony graced by President William Ruto, his Ugandan counterpart Yoweri K. Museveni, and former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga.
The FKF Mozzart Bet Cup, formally known as The FKF President’s Cup, is the premier knockout tournament in Kenyan football, akin to the FA Cup in England. The tournament has a rich history that dates to the 1950s, when it was first established. Over the decades, it has undergone various name changes primarily influenced by sponsorship deals and administrative decisions.
Initially launched in the 1950s, the FKF President’s Cup has seen numerous iterations and transformations throughout its existence. The competition has been pivotal in promoting football at the grassroots level while providing a platform for clubs across Kenya to compete for national glory. The tournament’s structure is knockout-based, meaning teams face elimination after a single loss, which adds an element of excitement and unpredictability.
Designed to unearth talent from grassroots to premier levels, it pits lower-tier clubs against top-flight giants, creating thrilling upsets and memorable moments. In 2024, the tournament reached new heights, culminating in a gripping final where Kenya Police FC emerged victorious, defeating Gor Mahia 2-1. The champions were awarded a cash prize of Ksh. 2 million, medals, and the coveted trophy, while Gor Mahia, as runners-up, received Ksh. 1 million. Individual accolades, such as the Golden Boot and MVP awards, further reaffirmed the tournament’s role in recognizing excellence.
Dero FC hails from Rarieda in Siaya County and boasts of a rich history as the most successful club in Rarieda. It was established in December 2013 and registered with Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Services February in 2015. The Club has complied with The Sports Act 2013 and has a well-qualified management, Senior Team, Ladies Team and Under 15 players. Dero Football Club home ground is located at Nyilima Sports Ground, next to the KNLS Library.
The club has emerged as a beacon of hope for the youth of region. Initially a modest team competing in local leagues, Dero FC quickly rose through the ranks of the FKF National Division II. Due to financial challenges Dero FC deepen down to county league and are picking up and are participating in FKF Nyanza Regional League, thanks to its disciplined training regimen and community support.
The County Government of Siaya has been a steadfast supporter of youth talent, viewing sports as a viable avenue for employment and empowerment. Under Governor James Orengo’s leadership, initiatives like the construction of the ultramodern stadium, upgrading of sports centers like Migwena Sports and Cultural Centre in South Sakwa Ward and sponsorship of local tournaments reflect this commitment.
With the recent conclusion of the FKF National Election, the FKF Siaya County branch, led by Mr. Kevin Oswere, is experiencing significant success. The local federation is enhancing its collaboration with the Siaya County Government through the department of sport, which is contributing to the improvement and sustainability of football in Siaya County through effective partnerships and cooperative efforts.
Beyond its on-field success, Dero FC has significantly contributed to society by nurturing talent and providing an alternative to unemployment. Many of its players have gone on to secure professional contracts, while the club’s youth programs have kept countless young people engaged in positive activities, reducing idleness and crime in the county.
Dero FC is also involved in environmental activities. An initiative undertaken by the club to improve the social and economic status of its members and the community at large dubbed the Dero FC Think Green Initiative. The multifaceted initiative includes;
- Tree planting/ Farm Forestry (Agro forestry)
- Environmental clean-up exercises
- Use and advocating for use of renewable energy.
This program focuses on 2 pillars, namely environment and education.
“We are driven to improve livelihoods in our communities through embarking on positive environmentally sustainable initiatives,” said Mr. Oswere, the Club’s Patron and founder.
“Through our education pillar we lean towards positively influencing the children and youth in Kenya and tapping their talents to unleash their individual potential for the good of their community, Siaya and ultimately developing Kenya,” he added.
The match against AFC Leopards drew dignitaries such as Governor James Orengo, Rarieda MP Hon. Dr. Otiende Amollo, and Siaya County Public Service Board Chairperson Eng. Collins Juma, Chief Officer for Governance, Administration, and ICT Hon. Walter Okelo whose presence underscored the county’s investment in sports infrastructure and youth development.
By hosting such high-profile events, Siaya continues to position itself as a cradle of talent, offering young people opportunities to shine and contribute to the region’s socio-economic growth.