The inter-camp multi-disciplinary tournament that concluded at Mahama refugee camp was more than just a sporting experience, according to refugees.

The tournament attracted over 600 refugees from five different camps namely Mahama, Mugombwa, Nyabiheke, Kigeme, and Kiziba. They competed in various sports disciplines including football, volleyball, basketball, karate, and sitting volleyball.

The event brought a wave of excitement and camaraderie to the camps, underscoring the importance of sports in the lives of refugees.

For refugees facing enormous challenges after being displaced from their homes, the intercamp competitions offered more than just physical exercise as it provided a crucial lifeline to normalcy, community, and hope.

According to participants, the tournament served as a powerful tool for mental and emotional well-being.

"I was amazed to see neighbors who have been struggling with depression cheering for our team in the finals. It showed me that sports have the power to bring people together and uplift spirits,” Charity Nishimwe, a refugee in Mahama, told The New Times.

"For a moment, I saw refugees break from the daily struggles of refugee life and experience true joy. We request that these competitions never stop because last year they didn’t happen.”

The harsh realities of displacement, including the loss of home, family, and identity, often lead to significant stress, anxiety, and depression.

Engaging in sports offers a much-needed outlet for these emotions and the intercamp competition succeeded in creating a shared space where individuals could come together, build friendships, and nurture talents.

Participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunities provided by having official refugee IDs, which have enabled them to access employment and other social benefits.

UNHCR representative Solomon Tarkang emphasized the importance of such competitions in nurturing the potential of young refugees.

The recently concluded Paris 2024 Olympics featured the largest refugee Olympic team from which the first refugee won an Olympic medal.

Referring to how the Olympics have over the years demonstrated how sports can bring people together, break down barriers, and increase enjoyment, Tarkang encouraged youth refugees to view the tournament as motivation to pursue their dreams, both in sports and in life.

This multi-disciplinary competition not only brought joy to the participants but also showcased the powerful role sports can play in the lives of refugees, offering them hope, healing, and a path to a brighter future.

Among the many participants in the intercampus tournament was Niyonzima Gasore, a 19-year-old volleyball prodigy from Mugombwa refugee camp, who emerged the volleyball tournament MVP.

Gasore, who fled insecurity from the Democratic Republic of Congo with his family, has found a new home in Rwanda and is currently a student at Nyanza TVET.

Standing at 1.95 meters, Gasore’s passion for volleyball was ignited by his brother, who also played the sport. His favorite position is left attacker, where his height and skill make him a formidable player on the court.

"Coaches see immense potential in me, predicting a bright future in volleyball. I have a dream that I will one day break the limitations of being a refugee and making a living from volleyball, using the sport not just as a means of escape but as a pathway to success."

Gasore’s participation in the tournament has further honed his skills, bringing him closer to realizing his dream.

Eric Mutabazi, the Refugee Technical Advisor at the Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA), highlighted that the intercamp competition was aimed at promoting unity and cooperation among refugees living in different camps.

Mutabazi emphasized the importance of sports in fostering resilience and determination in the face of adversity and expressed confidence in the talent displayed throughout the tournament.

He assured that the ministry will continue to work with partners to ensure that the tournament is held annually and that other disciplines are adopted to attract more competitors.

"Through sports, we have seen how refugees can come together to work towards a common goal. It is truly inspiring to witness the passion and dedication these individuals have for their respective sports,” he said.

"As we look towards to the future, we are excited to see how this tournament will continue to grow and evolve,” he added.

By working with partners, he said, a tennis court will be built in the camp, and other disciplines will be adopted, providing even more opportunities for refugees to showcase their talents and build a stronger sense of community.

In football, Mahama II emerged as champions after edging Kigeme 1-0 in the final. Mugombwa won the volleyball competition after defeating Kigeme 3-1 sets, thanks to the outstanding performance of tournament MVP Niyonzima Gasore.

Mahama I clinched the basketball title after overcoming Nyabiheke 41-39 in a crunch final while, in the women’s category, Mahama I defeated Mahama II 34-23 to claim the title.

All winners in other disciplines received Rwf 500,000 in prize money, except champions in football who received with Rwf 1,000,000.