Afiemo
Karate enthusiasts across Africa are bracing for a historic moment as Nigeria prepares to host the prestigious UFAK African Karate Championship, scheduled to take place from July 22nd to 27th 2025, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
The championship promises to be a landmark event, showcasing the best of African karate across three competitive levels: cadet (8th edition), junior (16th edition) and senior (23rd edition).
For those who don't know, UFAK is the Union of African Karate Federations (UFAK) the official continental governing body for the sport of karate in Africa.
As a non-governmental organization, UFAK plays a central role in the development, regulation and promotion of karate across the continent.
It coordinates with 51 national member federations, ensuring standardized training, competitive platforms and growth opportunities for karatekas from all corners of Africa.
Affiliated with the World Karate Federation (WKF), UFAK works closely with global stakeholders to ensure African athletes are well-represented and prepared on the international stage.
Currently UFAK is under the stewardship of Acting President Souleymane Gaye, who also holds the position of Assistant General Treasurer at the World Karate Federation. His dual leadership roles highlight UFAK’s integrated relationship with global karate governance and its commitment to elevating African talent.
However, the Union of African Karate Federations (UFAK) will hold its elective general congress on July 23 2025, at the Continental Hotel Abuja which will also serve as the official headquarters hotel for the championship event.
In Nigeria, local preparations are being spearheaded by Hon. Silas Agara, President of the Karate Federation of Nigeria (KFN).
Under his leadership, Nigeria is set to deliver a world-class championship that not only strengthens the sport within the country but also solidifies its position as a hub for martial arts on the African continent.
The 2025 UFAK African Championship is more than a sporting competition; it is a celebration of unity, discipline and African excellence. The tournament will serve as a melting point for young cadets, ambitious juniors and elite seniors, each seeking continental glory and potential qualification for global karate tournaments.
This year’s three-pronged event structure ensures broader participation, increased talent exposure and strategic growth at all levels of the sport.
Hosting the African Championship is a major win for Nigeria and for African karate as a whole as it presents a powerful platform to:
- Showcase African martial arts talent to the world
- Strengthen intercontinental collaboration through sport
- Promote youth engagement, discipline, and cultural exchange
- Inspire future generations to take up karate
With preparations already in high gear, Nigeria’s capital city is expected to transform into the heart of African karate come July.
The championship will not only feature thrilling bouts but also possible strategic discussions aimed at the future of karate on the continent.
As the countdown begins, fans, athletes and officials alike are looking forward to what promises to be one of the most impactful karate events Africa has ever hosted.
All bouts would be streamed live via YouTube, for the viewing pleasure of both our home and international audience.
