The 8th Ambassador's Karate Cup
2026/3/7
On 7 March 2026, the 8th Ambassador's Karate Cup was held at Kigali Universe, a premier event co-organized by the Rwanda Karate Federation (FERWAKA) and the Embassy of Japan. The tournament showcased Rwanda’s elite male and female karatekas, highlighting exceptional sportsmanship and talent.
The event drew high-level attendance, including Mr. NIYONGABO Damien, President of the Rwanda Karate Federation, Dr. Sabin NSANZIMANA, Minister of Health, and Ms. Candy BASOMINGERA, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, as a guest of honor. In his speech, Ambassador NAKAJO praised the steady growth of karate in Rwanda, a Japanese originated martial art. He reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting the sport’s development, noting that the level of competition has risen significantly since the Cup’s inception. This progress is reflected in the increasing number of Rwandan athletes qualifying for major continental tournaments, with Rwandan karatekas numbering more than 7,000.
Beyond the competition for medals, the tournament highlighted the role of karate in fostering character and discipline among Rwandan youth. By emphasizing the "Budo" spirit, the event served as both a sporting highlight and a celebration of the enduring cultural partnership between Rwanda and Japan.
Since the Cup’s inception, technical standards in Rwanda have risen annually, with local athletes increasingly qualifying for major continental competitions. Beyond the medals, the tournament underscores a hope that karate will continue to foster the healthy development of Rwandan youth through the discipline of daily practice.
The event drew high-level attendance, including Mr. NIYONGABO Damien, President of the Rwanda Karate Federation, Dr. Sabin NSANZIMANA, Minister of Health, and Ms. Candy BASOMINGERA, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, as a guest of honor. In his speech, Ambassador NAKAJO praised the steady growth of karate in Rwanda, a Japanese originated martial art. He reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting the sport’s development, noting that the level of competition has risen significantly since the Cup’s inception. This progress is reflected in the increasing number of Rwandan athletes qualifying for major continental tournaments, with Rwandan karatekas numbering more than 7,000.
Beyond the competition for medals, the tournament highlighted the role of karate in fostering character and discipline among Rwandan youth. By emphasizing the "Budo" spirit, the event served as both a sporting highlight and a celebration of the enduring cultural partnership between Rwanda and Japan.
Since the Cup’s inception, technical standards in Rwanda have risen annually, with local athletes increasingly qualifying for major continental competitions. Beyond the medals, the tournament underscores a hope that karate will continue to foster the healthy development of Rwandan youth through the discipline of daily practice.
