Matet Lokito’s Plea for Local Sports Support in Turkana County

Matet Lokito, who is a seasoned expert in International Studies, a youth leader, a fervent Pan Africanist, a dedicated political activist, an adept communication strategist, a meticulous researcher, and proficient trainer, has observed a trend that raises questions about the priorities of the youth in Turkana County.

While the vibrant energy of the Turkana youth is channeled into supporting and branding European sports clubs, there seems to be a stark contrast when it comes to their own local clubs.

In this blog post, we explore Matet Lokito’s argument that the youth in Turkana must redirect their focus and resources towards supporting and nurturing local talents, rather than perpetuating a culture of European sports fanaticism.

In countless retreats and gatherings, you’ll find Turkana youths proudly donning the jerseys of European football giants, passionately discussing the highs and lows of matches that occur thousands of miles away.

The enthusiasm and fervor with which they support these foreign teams are commendable, but it begs the question: why doesn’t the same spirit extend to their local football clubs?

Matet Lokito argues that this trend reflects a broader issue – a disconnection with and negligence of the homegrown talent that exists within Turkana. The youths’ eagerness to invest time, resources, and energy into European sports clubs instead of their own local teams is a paradoxical situation that calls for reflection.

“Talking about talents not being nurtured is a contradiction when we are the ones killing those talents,” Lokito asserts. The vibrant football culture in Turkana is overshadowed by the allure of foreign leagues, leading to a lack of investment and support for local talents. This, Lokito emphasizes, is not just folly but mediocrity of the highest order.

Simon Logilae stands as a beacon of hope in this scenario, receiving commendation and applause from Lokito and others who recognize the need to nurture local talents. Logilae, alongside other passionate individuals, is actively involved in bringing to light the hidden potential that exists within Turkana’s sports scene.

These local heroes understand that building a strong foundation starts at home. They invest time and effort in scouting for talent in the remotest corners of Turkana, providing opportunities for young football enthusiasts to hone their skills. Logilae and his counterparts are rewriting the narrative, emphasizing that the true spirit of sportsmanship lies in supporting and uplifting local talents.

One of the major challenges faced by Turkana’s football clubs is the lack of resources. European clubs boast massive sponsorships, state-of-the-art facilities, and a fan base that spans continents. In contrast, local clubs struggle to secure funding, access proper training grounds, and garner support from the community.

The call to action is clear – Turkana youths must redirect their passion and support towards their own local clubs. It’s time to transform those European jerseys into the colors of homegrown teams, to cheer for the victories and console during the defeats of teams that represent their own communities.

Supporting local clubs is not just about attending matches; it’s about creating a culture of encouragement and pride in what Turkana has to offer. By diverting attention and resources back to the roots of their sporting heritage, the youth can contribute to the growth and development of Turkana’s sports scene.

Local clubs can become pillars of community pride, fostering a sense of unity and identity. Imagine the impact of local businesses sponsoring these teams, of families cheering together for their homegrown talents, and of the entire community rallying behind the success of their own.

Matet Lokito’s call for a paradigm shift in the mindset of Turkana’s youth is a reminder that true sportsmanship goes beyond the international stage. It starts at the grassroots level, in the dusty fields and sun-soaked pitches where local talents emerge. The journey to success is a collective effort, and supporting local clubs is an investment in the future of Turkana’s sports legacy.

As Simon Logilae and others continue to nurture local talents, it is a plea to the youth of Turkana – let’s celebrate our own, let’s build a legacy that future generations can be proud of, and let’s turn the spotlight back on the untapped potential that lies within the heart of Turkana County.

It’s time to wear our local colors with pride, to champion our own, and to be the change we wish to see in Turkana’s sports landscape.