The courts of Kibabii University recently came alive with more than just the sound of dribbled balls and cheers, they echoed a powerful message of hope and change at the 2025 Usawa Basketball Festival.
Held in Bungoma County, the festival gathered seven girls’ teams from six sub-counties for an event that was about much more than winning games. It was a bold statement against gender bias, using basketball as a channel to empower girls, sharpen their leadership, and challenge long-standing stereotypes about women in sports.
One of the standout players was Abgaily Opicho from Sirakaru Secondary School, a force on the court and a symbol of rising talent. Just two years into the game, Abgaily has already made her mark, helping her school secure back-to-back county championships. Her journey began in 2023 under the guidance of her coach, Wycliffe Baraza. What started as a casual interest has evolved into a passion and now, a dream of national-level success.
“The Usawa Festival gave us so much more than matches,” said Abgaily. “We’ve grown as a team and as individuals. Our confidence is high, and we’re ready for the Western Region games.”
Sirakaru’s dominance was once again on full display as they cruised past Nalondo 21–6 to defend their 3×3 county title. Yet, the festival’s real victory was in what the girls gained off the scoreboard confidence, camaraderie, and a glimpse into new possibilities.
Workshops and mentorship sessions ran alongside the games, focusing on personal branding, leadership, and environmental awareness. Girls discovered they could lead not just on the court but in their communities and future careers.
Elizabeth Waliuba, founder of Imarisha Usawa and one of the key minds behind the festival, summed up the mission clearly: “We’re not just building athletes we’re building agents of change. This is about creating opportunities for girls to grow, lead, and rewrite their narratives.”
For 16-year-old Farida Wasike from Chwele Girls High School, basketball has become more than a sport it’s a lifeline. Inspired by her cousin, she’s now a quick-footed point guard with dreams of representing Kenya’s Lioness team or even playing professionally overseas.
“Basketball is showing me a different future,” said Farida. “The Usawa Festival proved that I can go far, not just in the game, but in life.”
As the final whistle blew, it was clear that this festival had already scored its biggest win empowering young girls in Bungoma to see themselves not just as players, but as leaders, trailblazers, and changemakers.
