Lokonyen: Sport Offers a Lifeline of Hope for Refugees, Igniting Futures Beyond Displacement

Kenya - Ekhbary News Agency

Lokonyen: Sport Offers a Lifeline of Hope for Refugees, Igniting Futures Beyond Displacement

“Sport has that power to change a life,” declares Rose Nathike Lokonyen, her smile radiating determination as she addresses the camera from her base in Ngong, Kenya. “Especially for refugees.” These words, simple yet profound, encapsulate a truth that Lokonyen embodies: the extraordinary capacity of athletic endeavor to transcend hardship, foster resilience, and ignite hope in the most challenging circumstances. As an alumna of the Refugee Olympic Team and a formidable middle-distance runner, Lokonyen's journey from a South Sudanese refugee to an international athlete is a powerful testament to this very principle.

Born in what is now South Sudan, Lokonyen was forced to flee her homeland due to conflict, eventually finding refuge in northern Kenya's Kakuma refugee camp. It was there, amidst the dust and uncertainty, that her athletic talent was discovered. Running became more than just a physical activity; it transformed into a pathway to self-discovery, a source of discipline, and ultimately, a ticket to a future she might never have imagined. Her participation in the inaugural Refugee Olympic Team at the Rio 2016 Games, and again in Tokyo 2020, brought global attention not only to her personal story but also to the plight and potential of millions of displaced individuals worldwide.

Lokonyen's advocacy extends beyond her own achievements. She passionately argues for the systemic integration of sports programs within refugee settlements and host communities. For refugees, sport offers a vital escape from the daily realities of displacement, trauma, and boredom. It provides a structured environment where individuals, particularly youth, can develop critical life skills such as teamwork, leadership, discipline, and problem-solving. These skills are invaluable, not just for athletic success, but for successful integration into society and future self-reliance.

Moreover, the psychological benefits are immense. Engaging in physical activity can significantly improve mental health, reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression that are common among displaced populations. Sport fosters a sense of belonging and community, breaking down social barriers and promoting intercultural understanding. In a camp setting, where diverse ethnic groups often live in close proximity, a shared love for football, running, or volleyball can create bonds that transcend previous divisions, building a more cohesive and peaceful environment.

Organisations like UNHCR and various NGOs have long recognised this potential, implementing sports-for-development initiatives globally. These programs range from providing basic equipment and coaching to establishing leagues and tournaments that bring joy, structure, and a sense of normalcy to refugee lives. Lokonyen herself often participates in such initiatives, serving as an inspirational figure who demonstrates what is possible with determination and opportunity. Her message resonates deeply: "We can give hope to other refugees." This isn't merely about winning medals; it's about instilling belief, proving that a life of dignity and achievement is possible even after profound loss.

The impact of sport on refugee communities is multifaceted. Economically, it can create opportunities for coaches, referees, and administrators within the camps. Socially, it helps in rebuilding social fabrics torn apart by conflict, offering a platform for healing and reconciliation. Educationally, sports programs often run in conjunction with schooling, encouraging attendance and providing a holistic development pathway for children and adolescents. By investing in sport, the international community invests in the human capital of refugees, empowering them to become active contributors to their new societies.

From her current vantage point in Ngong, Lokonyen continues to train, but her mission has broadened far beyond personal bests. She is a powerful voice on the global stage, advocating for policies and resources that empower refugees through sport. Her story serves as a compelling narrative against the backdrop of global displacement, reminding us that every refugee possesses untapped potential, waiting for an opportunity to flourish. Sport, in its purest form, offers that chance – a chance to dream, to strive, and crucially, to give and receive hope.

Ekhbary News Agency