ABOUT Hope Tour Basketball
Welcome to the Den
Empowering Youth. Transforming Communities. Inspiring Future Stars.
Welcome to Hope Tour Basketball!
At Hope Tour Basketball, we believe in the power of hope, resilience, and the transformative impact of sports on individuals and communities. Founded by Peter Kiganya—A Hall of Famer at Abilene Christian and one of the most accomplished basketball player out of Kenya —our mission is simple: to inspire the next generation of basketball talent while giving back to the communities that helped shape us.
”Our Youth DO NOT want handouts. Sometimes they want us to pause and see things from their perspective instead of us talking about OUR TIME. I had a great conversation with Erick in Thika, we shared our stories and found common ground through our journeys. Keep walking Erick and tell your own story. No one can tell it better than you !!!.”
Our vision
A Kenya where every young person — regardless of background — has access to opportunity, support, and a pathway to realize their potential.
Our Mission
To empower and inspire the next generation of youth through basketball, mentorship, and community engagement.
Our Story
Hope Tour Basketball was founded by Peter Kiganya, a Nairobi-born athlete whose life was changed through the game of basketball. From playing on local courts in Kenya to earning a college scholarship and eventually launching a professional career across several continents, Peter’s journey embodies resilience, hope, and the transformative power of community.
In 2003, Peter made a commitment to give back to the game that opened many doors for him. With his experience, resources, and platform, he wanted to create opportunities for young athletes who lacked the support they needed. What began with a simple act — donating a single pair of basketball shoes — has now grown into a nationwide mission impacting hundreds of youths each year.
Our Core Values
Every young person deserves a chance.
We rise by lifting others.
Exposure changes lives.
Sport teaches life skills beyond the court.
True change happens one child at a time.
Our Founder
Peter “Leon Africano” Kiganya
Founder | Former Pro Athlete | Youth Mentor | Community Builder
Peter Kiganya, widely known as Leon Africano, is a former Kenya National Team player, professional athlete, mentor, and the founder of Hope Tour Basketball. His mission is simple: to use basketball as a tool to build hope, opportunity, and transformation for youth across Kenya.
Early Lifer
Peter “Leon Africano” Kiganya
Founder | Former Pro Athlete | Youth Mentor | Community Builder
Peter Kiganya, widely known as Leon Africano, is a former Kenya National Team player, professional athlete, mentor, and the founder of Hope Tour Basketball. His mission is simple: to use basketball as a tool to build hope, opportunity, and transformation for youth across Kenya.
College Career
Peter “Leon Africano” Kiganya
Founder | Former Pro Athlete | Youth Mentor | Community Builder
Peter Kiganya, widely known as Leon Africano, is a former Kenya National Team player, professional athlete, mentor, and the founder of Hope Tour Basketball. His mission is simple: to use basketball as a tool to build hope, opportunity, and transformation for youth across Kenya.
Professional Career
Peter “Leon Africano” Kiganya
Founder | Former Pro Athlete | Youth Mentor | Community Builder
Peter Kiganya, widely known as Leon Africano, is a former Kenya National Team player, professional athlete, mentor, and the founder of Hope Tour Basketball. His mission is simple: to use basketball as a tool to build hope, opportunity, and transformation for youth across Kenya.
Founding Hope Tour Basketball
Peter “Leon Africano” Kiganya
Founder | Former Pro Athlete | Youth Mentor | Community Builder
Peter Kiganya, widely known as Leon Africano, is a former Kenya National Team player, professional athlete, mentor, and the founder of Hope Tour Basketball. His mission is simple: to use basketball as a tool to build hope, opportunity, and transformation for youth across Kenya.
Our Philosophy
Peter believes in the power of mentorship and community. He often says:
“Someone believed in me—now I want to be that person for someone else.”
Today
Peter continues to mentor, coach, travel, and empower communities through Hope Tour Basketball. He remains a servant leader, dedicated to building hope and inspiring the next generation.
Join Us
Be a part of the movement. Together, we can uplift, empower, and create lasting change for the youth of Kenya through basketball.