Nairobi, Kenya (Running Africa) — Oscar-winning Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o has become an investor in Nairobi City Thunder, joining the ownership group of the first Kenyan basketball club to qualify for the Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Nyong’o announced the investment on September 24 through Instagram, saying she was proud to support the club as it continues its rise in Kenyan and African basketball.
She joins other prominent Kenyan figures involved with Nairobi City Thunder, including musician Bien-Aimé Baraza and his wife, Chiki Kuruka.
Nairobi City Thunder Prepare for Kenya Basketball Finals
Nyong’o’s investment comes as defending champions Nairobi City Thunder prepare to face Kenya Ports Authority in the Kenya National Basketball League finals.
The best-of-five championship series begins on today, (September 26) in Mombasa, with the opening two games scheduled for Makande Gymnasium.
The team will be seeking to retain their domestic title while preparing for another season of continental basketball.
Thunder Made Kenyan Basketball History in BAL
Nairobi City Thunder became the first Kenyan club to qualify for the Basketball Africa League in 2024, marking a major breakthrough for the country’s club basketball scene.
The team made its BAL debut in 2025 and recorded its first continental victory against South Africa’s Made By Ball, although it did not advance to the playoffs.
They subsequently secured qualification for the 2026 BAL season after winning the East Division Elite 16 tournament in Nairobi. The Kenyan champions defeated Johannesburg Giants 94-84 in the final to book another appearance in Africa’s leading club basketball competition.
Lupita Nyong’o Joins Thunder Ownership Group
Nyong’o’s entry adds another internationally recognized Kenyan name to Nairobi City Thunder’s ownership group as the club expands its profile beyond the domestic league.
The investment comes at a significant period for Thunder, with the club pursuing another Kenyan championship while preparing to compete against Africa’s leading basketball teams in the BAL.
