Africa-Press – Kenya. Adil Homriti, Wanjiru Karani (Tennis Kenya -SG), Iain Smith (ITF Head of officials), Nock president Shadrack Maluki and Francis Mutuku (Tennis Kenya Vice President)
Tennis Kenya has received global recognition after winning the Silver Award at the 2025 ITF Advantage All Awards, honouring nations driving gender equity and opportunity across world tennis.
Kenya finished second behind Turkey, who took the gold, with the USA and Croatia jointly earning bronze.
The accolade celebrates Tennis Kenya’s transformative officiating programme that is redefining opportunities for women in sport and putting Africa firmly on the global tennis map.
“We are very excited to receive this award. This recognition affirms what we have always believed that opportunity changes everything,” said Wanjiru Mbugua-Karani, Secretary-General of Tennis Kenya.
“Through this programme, we are not just training officials; we are building careers, inspiring confidence, and opening doors for women to earn a living in tennis. Kenya’s achievement is not just a win for us; it is a win for Africa. Africa is rising, and women are at the heart of that rise.”
Tennis Kenya President James Kenani echoed her sentiments, adding, “Equality grows when men use their power to empower.”
Through mentorship, university engagement and progressive policy reforms, Tennis Kenya has established clear pathways for women to enter and thrive in tennis officiating.
The initiative has seen Kenya produce 15 ITF-registered female officials — the highest number in Africa — including three certified ITF White Badge officials.
Among Kenya’s leading lights are Bronze Badge Chair Umpire Ann Wambui, White Badge Referee Nancy Nduku, and White Badge Chair Umpire Treasa Mutuku, who have officiated at Wimbledon, Roland Garros, the Davis Cup, and the Billie Jean King Cup by Gainbridge.
The Silver Award comes with a $4,000 grant from the International Tennis Federation to further strengthen mentorship and expand opportunities for women in tennis across Kenya and the wider region.
Kenya’s recognition marks a milestone moment for African tennis, reinforcing the country’s growing reputation as a leader in advancing gender equality and empowering women through sport.
For More News And Analysis About Kenya Follow Africa-Press
