In the vibrant heart of Nairobi, where temperatures soar above 20C, lies a unique sight — the Panari Hotel, featuring the only ice rink in east and central Africa. This rink serves as the training ground for the Kenya Ice Lions, the nation’s pioneering ice hockey team, established in 2016. Despite the warm climate, the team has made significant strides, most recently becoming the fifth African team to gain membership in the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF).
“For me, stepping onto the ice for the first time felt like an astonishing journey,” said Benjamin Mburu, captain of the Ice Lions. He shared how foreign the concept of ice hockey was growing up in Kenya, where snowy landscapes are relegated to the realm of holiday films. His excitement is shared among his teammates, who have embraced the challenge of learning and competing in a sport largely unknown in their region.
As an IIHF member, the Ice Lions have opened doors to enhanced funding, expert coaching, and international competitions, propelling them into a new realm of possibilities. Recognized alongside teams from Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and South Africa, the Ice Lions now face the significant task of meeting the IIHF's competitive standards, a challenge captain Mburu is eager to tackle.
The foundation of the Ice Lions was built by expatriates from North America who ignited interest in ice hockey within the local community. Despite the financial barriers of accessing the freezing rink, which costs about $100 for just one hour of ice time, the team's resolve remains strong. Their practice space is merely a quarter of the size of an Olympic rink, which only allows them to play modified matches. Equipping players has also been problematic, with specialized gear often sourced from overseas.
However, the Ice Lions have made impressive gains, attracting local media attention and sponsorships through their resilience. They recently had a transformative trip to Canada, where encounters with NHL stars created new opportunities for equipment donations and funding that have enhanced their training programs. Their participation in an exhibition tournament in South Africa further tested their skills, earning them affirmation that they can compete at higher levels.
In addition to international aspirations, the Ice Lions are committed to nurturing future talent. Every Saturday, they host coaching sessions for local children, inspiring enthusiasm for ice hockey among youths in Kenya. Young players like 12-year-old Liam Pashari express their enthusiasm, emphasizing the camaraderie fostered during training. Plans are also underway to establish a women's team, reflecting the Ice Lions' dedication to inclusivity in the sport.
With their newfound status in the IIHF and the ambitious target of reaching the Winter Olympics, the team seeks to showcase Kenya on the ice. "We need to prove that Kenyans can indeed play ice hockey,” said Mike Carlos, a forward with the team. The Ice Lions' journey from a fledgling team in Kenya’s tropical climate to aspiring Olympians stands as a testament to determination, innovation, and the promise of a sustainable future in sport.
