For the love of the game: How Nakuru became a hotspot for sporting talent
Nakuru-born football referee Willis Otieno popularly known as Awilo by his fans.
If Nakuru is not hosting a popular artist in a must-attend entertainment event, it is likely to be hosting an exciting sporting event that usually brings out people from all walks of life.
From rugby to world rally championships to athletics, the list is endless. And it is for this reason that the county has managed to earn a glowing reputation in the sporting world, producing some of the finest individuals in various fields.
At the ongoing African Cup of Nations (Afcon), for instance, locals have been able to cheer more than just the game thanks to Nakuru-born football referees Stephen Yiembe and Gilbert Cheruiyot, who are part of the team of assistant referees selected to oversee the matches currently taking place in Côte d'Ivoire.
According to Francis Oliele, the Nakuru chairman of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), the county has always been taken into consideration in the selection of referees.
"I can say that Nakuru is a powerhouse when it comes to producing quality football referees, we owe this to the fact that our referees are impartial and disciplined. You will never miss a Nakuru referee in most of these high intensity matches. This reflects their ability to perform at the highest level of professionalism," said Oliele.
Mtaa Wangu spoke to some of the referees who have earned Nakuru this special distinction.
Among them is Willis Otieno, known to his friends as Awilo, has been a centre referee for the past 10 years.
According to Awilo, it is his love and passion for the sport that really drives him to do the job.
"Over the years I have refereed countless matches. My most memorable match is the Police vs. Ulinzi derby," said Awilo.
Awilo's ambitions do not end with the Kenyan premier league, as he is also hoping for an opportunity on the international stage.
"It is every referee's dream to wear the FIFA badge. You know, once you are in the Premier League, the next thing you dream of is becoming a FIFA referee and officiating in international matches, I would say that would be my dream," he said.
Racecourse-born Beatrice Oganga is another heavyweight in the game. She has been a referee in the Kenya Premiere League for the past nine years.
Nakuru-born Kenya Premiere League football referee Beatrice oganga.
"I remember refereeing the match between Shabana FC and Migori FC which was a crucial game as the winner was to be promoted to the Kenya Premier League. I am now a centre referee and I must say that I really enjoy my job. For me, I love playing football and refereeing matches," said Beatrice.
She says there is a lot of respect for women in the game these days, as evidenced by the fact that women are now allowed to referee both men's and women's matches.
"The players usually show great respect for the officials, whether male or female. There is also great coordination between the male players and the female referees. Nowadays, referees are protected by FIFA, so there isn't much harassment. For those who want to pursue this career, I would encourage you to join us in this endeavour," she said.