Kisumu:The 2026 County Assemblies Sports Association (CASA) Games commenced with much fanfare, bringing Kisumu to a standstill as participants from across the country converged for the event. The opening ceremony took place at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo, with a procession along the Kisumu-Kakamega highway marking the official start of the week-long games, which will run from October 25 to 31.
According to Kenya News Agency, the event is characterized by colorful displays, with county flags and banners decorating the stadium grounds. The theme for this year’s games, ‘Beyond Competition Forging Lasting Bonds through Sports and Culture’, emphasizes the importance of cultural exchange alongside sporting activities. Music played a significant role in the celebrations, with popular songs from various counties and a tribute to former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away a year ago.
The games feature a variety of sports, including football, handball, and volleyball, along with cultural performances and unique competitions like an eating contest. The events are spread across multiple venues in Kisumu, such as the Kisumu National Polytechnic and the Kenyatta Sports Ground. Approximately 2,000 county assembly members are participating, with the total number of attendees expected to reach 10,000.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o highlighted the economic and social benefits of the CASA Games, noting that the event strengthens Kisumu’s reputation as a destination for sports and tourism. He encouraged participants to explore the city’s cultural and tourism attractions while urging residents to extend warm hospitality.
The games, which began in 2018, aim to promote unity, cultural exchange, and physical fitness among Members of County Assemblies and staff. The current edition marks the seventh iteration since its inception, with previous host cities including Nairobi, Uasin Gishu, and Nakuru.
