Athletics for the development of conflict-afflicted areas

Kapenguria, a town nestled in West Pokot County in Kenya, is faced with a host of challenges that have deeply affected the daily lives of its residents. One of the region’s main problems is the inter-community conflicts triggered by competition over resources, especially water and pastureland, between the various ethnic groups. These tensions have caused human losses, massive population displacements, and substantial material damage. A climate of mistrust now reigns, exacerbated by precarious socio-economic conditions and the footprint of climate change. In this context, the promotion of sport is emerging as an effective solution to foster peaceful coexistence and reduce friction between the various communities. 

The Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation (TLPF) provides education and sports training to disadvantaged children, refuges and orphans in conflict-afflicted areas in East Africa. Through this approach, the Academy aims to empower young people by providing them with the skills and resources they need to succeed. 

The Academy’s action is based on four main objectives:

• Facilitate access to sports facilities and equipment for young people living in conflict-afflicted areas;
• Organize sports events and programs to get young people from different communities to meet, with the aim of promoting peace and unity;
• Provide education and training to young people living in conflict-afflicted areas and thereby develop their skills and opportunities;
• Raise awareness of the impact of conflicts on communities and promote peacebuilding and conflict resolution through sport.

• Coaches, educators and teachers have better skills to more effectively support young athletes in their future pathways;
• Awareness-raising on the issues of youth protection, gender equality and the rights of girls to promote access to equal educational opportunities and encourage an increased participation of girls in sports activities;
• Community mobilized for the promotion of peace, the conservation of the environment and the adoption of sustainable farming practices.