Masumbe and Rochene Join Eliud Kipchoge’s Mentorship Session at Dakar 2026.
Uganda-based Refugee Olympic Team athletes Florence Masumbe and Rachid Rochene were among the young athletes who benefited from an inspiring mentorship session led by marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge at the Youth Olympic Village in Dakar, Senegal.
The two young sprinters, who are representing the Refugee Olympic Team at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, had an opportunity to interact with the two-time Olympic marathon champion during an Inside Sport session organised as athletics competition got underway.
Kipchoge, an IOC Global Ambassador for Dakar 2026, shared experiences from his remarkable career and offered insights to the next generation of athletes, drawing on lessons from more than two decades in elite athletics.
For Masumbe and Rochene, the engagement was particularly meaningful as they continue their journey at a historic edition of the Youth Olympic Games, where the Refugee Olympic Team is making its first-ever appearance.
Learning from a Champion
The session provided the athletes with an opportunity to learn about the discipline, commitment and mindset required to succeed at the highest level of sport.
Kipchoge has been closely involved in mentoring the Refugee Olympic Team, having previously met the athletes during their preparation camp in Kaptagat, Kenya, ahead of the Games. His continued engagement in Dakar has offered the young athletes encouragement as they navigate their first Youth Olympic experience.
The Kenyan athletics legend has consistently emphasised the importance of discipline, setting goals, respecting others and believing in one’s potential.
His message carries particular significance for young refugee athletes pursuing sporting ambitions despite the challenges and uncertainty that displacement can bring.
Uganda’s Contribution to a Historic Team
Masumbe and Rochene are among six athletes selected for the Refugee Olympic Team at Dakar 2026, with both representing Uganda as their host National Olympic Committee.
Florence competes in the women’s 200m, while Rachid takes on the men’s 200m. Both athletes recorded personal bests in their respective semi-finals, with Masumbe clocking 29.54 seconds and Rochene registering 24.32 seconds.
Their participation is a testament to the opportunities created through sport and the growing pathways available to young refugee athletes.
Their presence at the mentorship session with Kipchoge adds another memorable experience to their Dakar journey, giving them an opportunity to learn from one of the sport’s most celebrated figures.
As the Games continue, the experience gained by Masumbe and Rochene extends beyond their performances on the track. Through competition, mentorship and interaction with athletes from around the world, they are building confidence, gaining exposure and carrying an inspiring message of hope and possibility.
For Uganda, their journey remains a proud reminder of the role sport can play in opening doors and ensuring that talent and ambition are given an opportunity to shine.
