Meet the game changer named Khunuo
Creating heroes among persons with disabilities
Iphemele Khunou – a hyperactive and athletic South African national, was born with a rare condition called Septo- optic dysplasia, but he does not dwell on self- pity. e condition impacts approximately one in every 10,000 births regardless of gender. However, it has not deterred him but instead, cultivated in him a remarkable personality, who now urges nations to unite rather than operate independently. He is a man with a purpose, determined to ensure that SADC countries do not operate independently but instead unite to provide much- needed support to the disability communities.
His goal is to foster an environment where an African Olympian marathon runner who uses crutches can thrive. During the recent Diacore Gaborone Marathon, Khunou stood out among the over 11, 000 tness and health enthusiasts. Despite his condition, which requires him to use crutches for balance, he attracted attention from the starting line to the nish line. Many initially doubted him, dismissing him as just a hopeful participant. However, he earned respect along the route as people realised he was there by determination, not chance.
Asked about his experience and first- time participation in Botswana he said it was amazing to run, but pointed out that some had thought he would only run 10 kilometres, despite his marathon number being coded blue, indicating that he was running 21.1 km. “Within the rst 3 kilometres, there were some guys who would run and then immediately stop a er passing me. As a runner, it feels almost disrespectful, and I wanted to ask them to run if they were going to run. “But I chose to display my discipline by breaking away from them. For the next 4 kilometres, I had a running partner, unfortunately, I didn’t catch her name. She matched my pace wonderfully. en came the most interesting part: at some point, we were joined by others, forming what in marathon terms is called a “bus”, and I happened to be the driver. “As good as it was, we le many behind. Leading this group for at least 11 kilometres, with many joining and dropping out as is normal in a marathon, was out of this world. I enjoyed it mostly because I am a runner who chats with people along the route. “I like motivating runners, believing that as runners, we should pick each other up. People were surprised that I was still comfortable at that pace. Back home, most runners prefer to run at or pick up my pace because they have con dence, they will complete the race in good time.
“So, it was great for Batswana to embrace me and create such a welcoming environment. is was my personal best time because here in Gaborone, I ran 2: 53: 20, compared to my previous time of 3 hours 9 minutes.”
In an interview with Botswana Guardian, Khunou described himself as an advocate for people with disabilities. He believes in actively utilising individuals with disabilities rather than making them dependent on grants. Khunou is strongly opposed to the idea of people with disabilities being reliant on grants. He has partnered with the Nelson Mandela Children Fund to address the issue, particularly focusing on children with disabilities who o en end up in homes, leaving their parents uncertain about how to care for them due to the stigma associated with disability, resulting in children being hidden away. Khunou also visits communities and orthopaedic hospitals, as they deal primarily with individuals with disabilities or those needing bone aid. He strives to engage with them and the South African Government to find ways to effectively utilise the abilities of people with disabilities. He believes there is insu cient information about disabilities, o en leading to fear, particularly in African communities. “at mindset is something I aim to change,” he says. is is why he is currently attending a course to start coaching clinics focused on running on crutches, aiming to create heroes among persons with disabilities. He believes that once you become a hero, the community’s perception of you changes. Sponsored by and running for the Nedbank Runners Club, Khunuo, believes it is possible to create heroes. “e network that I have built over the years has been invaluable. It won’t be easy, but I have a strong team of people who truly believe in me and are working hard to make my dream a reality - for the bene t of all. “My dream is to witness the rst crutch runner from Africa at the Paralympics, not just someone from South Africa. is is why I felt the need to come to Botswana and assess the participation of the disability community here.” Khunuo said he is reaching out to Batswana, inviting them to join him in bringing more disabled athletes not only
to Botswana but also to build a strong community across SADC countries. “We need to explore how sports can bene t persons with disabilities. ere are numerous scholarships abroad o ering better opportunities for our people, and many organisations dedicated to helping people with disabilities.
“However, if we continue working in isolation, our impact will be limited, and we won’t grow. My plea is for us to stop working in silos and foster growth within the community”.
Regrettably due to logistical issues, he couldn’t meet with fellow disability communities in the country. However, he remains hopeful as plans are underway to reschedule or arrange a meeting as soon as possible.