Honoring the exceptional achievements of women across diverse sectors in Kenya during the celebration of International Women’s Day 2025 is the best bet, the organizers of Zuri Foundation have said.
The Foundation’s co-founder, Muthoni Mumo, said during the official announcement of the 2025 Zuri Awards on Wednesday, March 5, that the potential in increasing the representation of women in leadership roles is immense.
“Women are increasingly leading the change for transformation across Africa as the continent makes significant strides toward gender parity,” she said.
This year’s Zuri awards will culminate in a Gala Dinner Ceremony on March 6, 2025, at the Mövenpick Hotel, and is expected to align with the global theme for International Women’s Day: #AccelerateAction, which emphasizes the importance of taking swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality.
Its organizers noted that Kenya is witnessing remarkable progress, with women occupying key positions in governance, including the Chief Justice, several Cabinet Secretaries, CEOs, and Senior Leadership in the private sector.
“While we celebrate these advancements, we must address persisting challenges rooted in gender stereotypes, work-life balance issues, wage disparities, and leadership underrepresentation,” Muthoni added.
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Zuri Foundation stands as a testament to recognizing, celebrating, and supporting exceptional women driving positive change within their communities and comes at a time when there is need to eliminate barriers and biases hindering gender equality in professional and personal spaces.
“Gender diversity profoundly influences boardroom dynamics, enhancing performance, decision-making, talent acquisition, and overall profitability,” Muthoni said, adding that while some progress has been made, “significant barriers to gender equality remain.”
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She urged that with the right actions and dedicated support, substantial advancements can be achieved for women globally. Muthoni’s call to action highlights the importance of collective efforts in overcoming obstacles and creating a more equitable future for women everywhere.
Over the past eight years, the Zuri Awards have significantly impacted thousands of lives, creating Digital Stories for 1,135 submissions, shortlisting 241 nominees, and honoring 92 women, raising over $350,000 and impacting over 11.7 million lives.
This year’s nominations feature impressive initiatives such as Hyperemesis Gravidarum Foundation Africa – Supporting mothers experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum, Golden Tee Inclusive Golf – Committed to integrating persons with disabilities into golf and Urban Balcony Bounty – Promoting balcony gardening for sustainable living and additional income.
“The Zuri Awards illuminate the tenacity, creativity, and excellence of women who defy barriers and pave new paths,” said Rachel Achieng, Founder of Urban Balcony Bounty. “Every individual here is already a winner because you’ve taken that vital first step toward progress and impactful change,” added Ann Wangui, CEO of Golden Tee Golf.
With nominations spanning 16 categories, the event will showcase the multifaceted contributions of women across Kenya, including Agriculture, Healthcare, Renewable Energy, Arts, Culture and Entertainment, Sports, Manufacturing, Education, Humanitarian Efforts, Public Service, Business, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Environmental Sustainability, Media, Young Achievers, and Women With Disabilities.
“The Zuri Awards represent more than just a ceremony; they embody a celebration of resilience and the transformative influence women exert within our communities,” said Elizabeth Frankline of the Hyperemesis Gravidarum Foundation Africa.
