A holder of several world records and the first African athlete to win the prestigious New York City Marathon, Loroupe is far more than a champion. Since the early 2000s, through her foundation, she has dedicated her life to promoting peace and supporting Africa’s youth, particularly refugees. At her training centre, displaced athletes are given the opportunity to rebuild their lives and prepare for international competition, turning adversity into strength.
Her presence in Nairobi was both symbolic and natural. “I love sport, it’s as simple as that,” she said. “Sport has no limits. In my institution, we also support judoka who are refugees themselves.” As the host nation welcomed athletes from across the continent, Loroupe expressed her pride in being part of what she described as the wider judo family.
Despite global recognition, she spoke with humility, hoping she would be welcomed into this community. There was never any doubt. Her commitment to sport and humanity resonates deeply with the values of judo. Her visit also reflects her broader role within African sport, as a member of the executive board of ANOCA (Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa), where she continues to advocate for unity and development.
In Nairobi, she was reunited with African Judo Union Vice-President Alfred Foloko, a fellow leader within ANOCA. For him, her presence carries profound meaning, “She is more than a sporting icon. She is an ambassador for sport, for Africa and for refugees. Her presence here inspires us all.”
As a lifelong athlete, Loroupe also shared her reflections on judo itself. What struck her most was the respect demonstrated on and off the tatami. “It is the only sport where I see such respect,” she noted. “Everyone is composed, everyone shows dignity. You should be proud of that.”
In a world increasingly marked by tension and division, her words carry particular weight. She highlights the importance of learning from the values embodied in judo: respect, humility and mutual understanding. “It is not just about winning or losing,” she explained. “You can win one day and lose the next. What matters is how you treat one another.”
Her message extended far beyond sport and resonated deeply with those present. As she expressed powerfully, “How can we imagine, when we look at the world today, that we can destroy a country and hope to work together tomorrow? We need to work together to help humanity grow, now!”
For Alfred Foloko and the entire African judo community, her visit was both an honour and a reminder. “This is a message for the whole world,” he said. “Through judo, we are building something that goes beyond sport. Having Tegla with us today shows that our values are shared and recognised.”
In Nairobi, amid the intensity of competition, Tegla Loroupe’s presence brought reflection and purpose. Her journey and her voice remind us that sport can unite where division exists and that true greatness lies not only in victory but in the ability to inspire a better future for all.
More about the Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation - CLICK HERE