Zimbabwean Youth Martial Artists Win Big in the UK with 43 Medals

Eight young martial artists from Zimbabwe, under the guidance of Shihan Wilfred Mashaya, made the nation proud after securing an impressive 43 medals at the ICO World Martial Arts Championships held in Swansea, Wales.

Competing for the first time in the UK, the team stood out among participants from powerhouse countries like the USA, Spain, and Brazil. Their medal tally included 14 gold, 18 silver, and 11 bronze medals, showcasing both individual excellence and strong teamwork.

“This is a major milestone for Zimbabwean martial arts,” said Shihan Mashaya. “The children demonstrated incredible focus, discipline, and heart. I’m extremely proud of their performance.”

The team represented the Zimbabwe Martial Arts Kobudo/Weapon Team, part of the Zimbabwe Karate Union (ZKU). They had undergone months of rigorous training at Mkushi Training Academy and Aquaview Resort (Lake Chivero)—facilities supported by the Zimbabwe Republic Police with backing from Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba. Mashaya emphasized that the training program not only prepared the youth for competition but also served as a positive outlet to steer them away from drugs and other harmful influences.

Medal Breakdown
Girls’ Division:

Dean Gwatah: 1 silver (individual freestyle weapon), 3 bronzes (team events)

Anenyasha Hove: 4 bronzes (team and individual categories)

Anotida Hove: 3 golds (individual and team), 1 silver

Thandeka Moyo: 3 golds, 3 silvers across multiple events

Boys’ Division:

Takudzwa Chizema: 3 golds (individual and team), 3 silvers

Wilfred Mashaya Jnr: 1 gold, 3 silvers (various events)

Arnold Mudzengerere: 1 gold, 2 silvers, 2 bronzes

Brian Mupindu Jnr: 1 gold, 3 silvers, 2 bronzes

Shihan Wilfred Mashaya himself competed and took home two gold medals in the black belt category (individual traditional and creative weapon), along with two silvers.

Mashaya attributed the team’s success to discipline, community support, and unity. “The children fought with courage and proudly represented Zimbabwe on a global stage,” he said. “This victory not only highlights their talent but also supports our broader mission to combat youth drug abuse through martial arts.”

He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to Delight Samanyanga, a Zimbabwean living in the UK, and her son Munyaradzi Chiwara, who assisted the team upon arrival. “They helped care for the children, especially the girls, and ensured their wellbeing during our stay. We are deeply thankful,” said Mashaya.

The championships brought together participants from across the world, including nations such as Spain, USA, Ireland, Ukraine, South Africa, Romania, Nepal, Germany, and Portugal.

The Zimbabwean team is expected to return home later this week to a hero’s welcome.

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