NAIROBI, Kenya – In celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, the Zuri Foundation has announced the nominations for the 2025 Zuri Awards, honoring the exceptional achievements of women across diverse sectors in Kenya.
This year’s awards will culminate in a Gala Dinner Ceremony on March 6, 2025, at the Mövenpick Hotel, aligning with the global theme for International Women’s Day: #AccelerateAction.
This theme emphasizes the importance of taking swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality.
It underscores the urgency of eliminating barriers and biases hindering gender equality in professional and personal spaces.
During the announcement, Zuri Foundation Co-Founder, Muthoni Mumo, emphasized the Foundation’s commitment to increasing the representation of women in leadership roles.
She stated, “Women are increasingly leading the change for transformation across Africa as the continent makes significant strides toward gender parity.”
Kenya has witnessed 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.
The Zuri Foundation stands as a testament to recognizing, celebrating, and supporting exceptional women driving positive change within their communities.
Muthoni remarked, “Gender diversity profoundly influences boardroom dynamics, enhancing performance, decision-making, talent acquisition, and overall profitability.”
Muthoni emphasized the persistent challenges facing gender equality, acknowledging that while some progress has been made, “Significant barriers to gender equality remain.”
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.
The 2025 Zuri Awards nominations span 16 categories, showcasing 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,” remarked Elizabeth Frankline of the Hyperemesis Gravidarum Foundation Africa.
In the ongoing pursuit for an Accelerated Action, the Zuri Foundation’s most effective strategy is to Support the Supporters.
