By: Emily Mikwa
The coastal city of Mombasa was transformed into a vibrant hub of regional unity as the East Africa Local Authorities Sports and Cultural Association (EALASCA) Games officially commenced on May 3rd, 2026.
The event kicked off with a colorful and spirited opening procession that wound through the heart of the city. Beginning at the Mombasa County Government offices and culminating at the Mbaraki Sports Club, the parade served as a grand prelude to a week of intense competition, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of civil servants from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and the DRC.
The games were formally inaugurated by the KICOSCA Patron, H.E. James Orengo, Governor of Siaya County, who underscored the event’s primary objective: fostering collaboration and regional integration
Among the notable participants was the “Dala” team from Kisumu County. Fielding a formidable and competitive contingent, the Kisumu representatives set their sights on top honors across a wide array of disciplines, including:
- Field & Court Sports: Netball, handball, basketball, volleyball, and athletics.
- Indoor & Precision Games: Darts, chess, scrabble, squash, pool, and badminton.
- Elite Competition: Tug of war and golf.
Beyond the pursuit of championship trophies, the games functioned as a vital platform for professional networking and strengthening diplomatic ties. Throughout the week, the spirit of “inter-county cooperation” was on full display, as the shared medium of sports allowed participants to bridge national borders through healthy rivalry and cultural exchange.
The competition remained fierce until the final whistle. On May 8th, the games reached their conclusion with a closing ceremony led by the EALASCA Patron from Uganda, who delivered the closing remarks and oversaw the official handover.
In a display of remarkable athleticism and sportsmanship, Kenya emerged as the overall champion, securing the top spot on the leaderboard after defeating Uganda in the majority of the contested disciplines. As the curtains fell on the 2026 edition, the event was hailed as a resounding success, having successfully solidified the bonds of friendship and appreciation among the civil servants of the East African Community.
