Women breaking barriers in sports in Kwale County
Kwale County Youth Director Kent Simiyu with some of the female footballers in Bwita Lunga Lunga sub-County. Photo courtesy Shaban Omar
For many years, sporting activities were often viewed as a male-dominated arena.
However, this perception is shifting, particularly in Kwale County, where more women and young girls are embracing sports and pursuing it as a career.
Recently, AVDelta News visited Bwita football ground in Lunga Lunga sub-County, where three(3) inspiring women, Peninah Yawa, Aisha Rajab, and Mariam Hamisi were training for an upcoming football tournament.
The tournament, organised by the Network for Adolescents and Youth of Africa under the She Leads Programme, aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence and nurture talent among young women.
Kwale County Youth Director Kent Simiyu highlighted that teen pregnancies and early marriages remain significant issues in the area.
"These problems continue to affect our youth negatively," Mr Simiyu said, emphasizing the need for community intervention through sports.
Ms Yawa, who plays for Queen Rangers, shared her journey.
"I have always wanted to be a professional footballer, but societal perceptions held me back," Ms Yawa explained.
She began playing in 2005 while in class six and has since played at the county level.
Through football, she feels empowered to tackle gender-based violence and create a safe space for women.
"Our goal is to uplift and empower women’s lives. We aim to dismantle outdated traditions that undermine women," she added.
Ms Yawa also mentioned that the football initiative helps women recognize issues that need reporting, fostering a safer community.
Inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo, she is optimistic about her future in football.
Ms Rajab,23, plays for Bwiti Queens and began her football journey in third grade.
As a mother, she balances her responsibilities with her passion for the sport.
"Football is all about discipline and values. It keeps you focused," she said.
Ms Rajab acknowledged the positive changes in community attitudes toward women in sports.
"In the past, we faced criticism for our attire, but now we are breaking those stereotypes," she said.
The third one, Ms Hamisi is a member of Man Rangers Queens, She started playing football in 2023 after gaining the confidence to pursue her childhood passion.
"Football is more than just a hobby for me. It is a career I am determined to pursue," she said.
Ms Hamisi's enthusiasm reflects the growing acceptance of women in sports, driven by empowerment initiatives.
Mr Simiyu noted that the tournament serves a dual purpose: raising awareness and helping women develop skills for future job opportunities.
"Sports can lead to self-employment and economic independence," he said, underscoring the importance of practical skills for the youth.
As more women like Yawa, Rajab, and Hamisi take to the field, they are not only changing perceptions about female athletes, but also building a supportive community that empowers women to thrive both on and off the field.
