Siaya County’s Scrabble contingent delivered one of their most complete, united and spirited performances yet during the 12th Edition of the KICOSCA Games, producing shock upsets, breakout stars and solid team chemistry — even as the county surrendered its defending crown to a blazing Busia side.
Despite being dethroned, Siaya cemented its reputation as a national Scrabble powerhouse, with multiple players across both men’s and women’s categories finishing in the top ranks, qualifying for the prestigious EALASCA Games, and earning respect across the board.
Siaya’s men put on a disciplined, high-intensity display, led not by one standout, but by a coordinated lineup of strategic thinkers from various county departments. Their unity produced a powerful Day One individual ranking that underlined balance rather than individual dominance.
Men:
1. Willis Ang’awa – Governance (Overall Scrabble Captain & 4th Place Overall)
2. Okello George – Health
3. Jacob Ooro – Finance
4. Dr. Bob Awino – Health
5. Julius Odhiambo – Water
Captain Willis Ang’awa continued to maintain his national pedigree, finishing 4th out of 79 competitors and securing EALASCA qualification. But this year’s story was equally about the depth behind him — with George, Ooro, Awino and Odhiambo all putting up strong fights and challenging seasoned opponents across the board.
Siaya entered the games as defending champions, but Busia County played with remarkable precision, ultimately dethroning Siaya and taking position one.
Busia’s star duo Amwayi and Morgan were particularly lethal, guiding their county to the top with unstoppable momentum.
Siaya finished second, a strong testament to their consistency despite fierce competition.
The tournament produced an unexpected champion as Homa Bay’s Stanley Mulaku — a debutant but long-time Scrabble veteran — stunned favourites to clinch the individual championship title.
In another twist, Ombajo, the little-known sensation from Migori, stormed his way to position 3, earning the label of the tournament’s ultimate dark horse.
The Siaya ladies delivered a polished team performance, even as Nairobi snatched the women’s title to complement their massive overall squad this year.
Ladies:
1. Merceline Amuga – Water (Ladies Captain & 3rd Overall; EALASCA Qualifier)
2. Diana Elsie Awuor – Siaya Municipality
3. Omondi Caroline – Finance
4. Esther Amollo – Governance
5. Sheila Amiso – Education (Impressive debut performance)
Amuga led from the front, finishing 3rd out of 75 players, and becoming the only Siaya lady to qualify for the EALASCA Games.
Awuor, Caroline, Amollo and debutant Amiso also impressed with their steady gains and tactical discipline, helping Siaya remain one of the strongest women’s Scrabble teams in the country.
The team attributes its results to combined discipline, strategic preparation and supportive leadership from the Nyalore administration led by Governor James Orengo. Top leadership influence and consistency also came from:
CEC Tourism, Sports & Culture – Anjeline Oduor
Chief Officer – Judith Patel
Director – Dr. Sanmac Okoth
Deputy Director Sports & National Technical Committee Chair – John Ang’awa
Committee Member – Kennedy Oreyo
World-class training space at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium, intense preparatory sessions, and inter-departmental support provided Siaya’s players the perfect environment to shine.
Balanced, formidable, and packed with both seasoned competitors and emerging talents, Siaya’s Scrabble team proved once again that they remain one of Kenya’s most feared forces — even in a year of upsets and shifting power.
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