23 January 2025
DBA Africa to Make Women’s Sports Development Programs Focus in 2025
Women’s sports are experiencing a transformative era, thanks to recent investments and a growing focus on their development. DBA Africa, a social enterprise in its fourth year, has always offered equal opportunities for academy players and coaches, ensuring that women in sports are equally represented. However, throughout East Africa, the number of girls participating in team sports remains far below that of boys. Addressing this disparity has become a primary goal for DBA.
The organization aims to see girls playing sports from an earlier age, for longer, and at higher levels. Through tailored initiatives and programs, DBA Africa is committed to uplifting women’s sports at the grassroots level, where support is needed most.
Women’s Sports in Kenya have long been a source of national pride, producing global icons in athletics, football, and rugby. Yet, challenges such as gender-based violence, societal norms, and limited access to resources continue to hinder progress. Recognising these barriers, DBA Africa has made it a priority to champion girls’ sports development and challenge societal norms. By creating programs specifically for girls, DBA aims to break barriers, uplift communities, and foster future leaders through sports.
DBA’s Current Girls Programs
DBA Africa’s journey began with a mission to ensure boys and girls have the same chances to play and excel. Today, the organization runs several programs specifically designed for girls. In 2024, DBA partnered with Kabras Sugar Rugby to commence a women’s development academy. Champions in the men’s format of the game, Kabras Rugby aims to invest in future champions and develop the women’s side to match their national champion status.
In addition to setting up various academies, DBA employed a Mobile Coach who visited over 50 schools through-out Western Kenya, promoting rugby and boosting participation for young females. Traditionally, rugby and sports in general in Western Kenya have been viewed as male domains, a societal norm that is gradually changing as young girls take up the opportunity to play. Through initiatives like this, DBA has already witnessed young girls breaking cultural and social barriers, stepping onto sports fields with confidence and ambition.
Growing Opportunities for Women in Sport
Kenya has seen growing success in women’s sports, with the big 3 of Football, Rugby and Basketball gaining the attention of fans and local media. However, to create success, structured development pathways are crucial. Challenges such as puberty, cultural restrictions, and access to equipment often force girls to abandon sports early.
DBA Africa’s New Focus on Women’s Sports
While DBA Africa has always prioritized gender equality, its renewed focus on women’s sports seeks to create sustainable change. The organisation is:
- Advocating for policies that support girls’ sports development.
- Developing programs tailored to the unique needs of female athletes.
- Partnering with local and international stakeholders to secure funding for girls’ rugby and other women’s sports initiatives.
- Supporting the national teams by creating a talent pipeline, ensuring that Kenya’s women athletes not only compete but excel on the global stage.
Recognising Differences in Coaching Boys and Girls
Coaching girls differs from coaching boys in several ways. Girls often face unique challenges such as lower confidence levels, societal pressures, and physical changes during puberty. DBA coaches are trained to:
- Build confidence through positive reinforcement.
- Adapt training sessions to accommodate the physical and emotional needs of girls.
- Foster a supportive team culture that encourages open communication.
This tailored approach ensures girls receive the support they need to excel in sports and life.
DBA Africa’s commitment to promoting women’s sports in Kenya is paving the way for a brighter future. By addressing challenges such as gender-based violence, cultural norms, and limited resources, the organization is ensuring that girls have equal opportunities to succeed. With a focus on girls’ sports development and using sports as a tool for development, DBA Africa is creating leaders both on and off the field.
Together, we can empower the next generation of women athletes and elevate the status of women’s sports in Kenya.