30/08/2026
JAPAN-ZAMBIA JUDO PARTNERSHIP HAILED AS 36TH AMBASSADOR’S JUDO CUP OPENS
[Full Video: https://youtu.be/mwAfjkoCcCE?si=WLOHQFE6YPGo2ONW]
The longstanding partnership between Japan and Zambia in the development of judo has been reaffirmed as the 36th Japanese Ambassador’s Judo Cup Championship officially opened yesterday at the Olympic Youth Development Centre (OYDC) Sports Zambia.
The championship has attracted 394 participants from 11 clubs, including judokas from Zimbabwe and the Mayukwayukwa Refugee Settlement.
Speaking during the official opening, the Japanese Ambassador to Zambia said the tournament, which has been running for more than 30 years, has grown beyond a competition into a platform for building friendships, discipline, confidence and stronger relations between the two countries.
The Ambassador said initiatives such as Judo for Peace have also created opportunities for young people in refugee communities to train, build confidence, make friends and develop valuable life skills, with some using the sport as a pathway towards future careers.
He encouraged the young judokas to be courageous, disciplined and respectful, urging them not to be discouraged by defeat but instead learn from their experiences and return stronger.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Sports Director Gibson Mayaule, speaking on behalf of the Minister, commended Japan, the Zambia Judo Association and other partners for their continued commitment to the development of judo in Zambia.
Mr. Mayaule said judo is more than a competitive sport, as it promotes discipline, respect, courage, self-control, perseverance and peaceful coexistence, which are essential values in building responsible citizens and cohesive communities.
He said the long-standing partnership between the Embassy of Japan and the Zambia Judo Association has provided Zambian athletes with opportunities to compete, improve their skills and pursue excellence.
Mr. Mayaule further said the tournament supports the objectives of Zambia’s 2024 National Sports Policy, particularly by increasing participation in sport, identifying talent and providing athletes with platforms to develop their abilities.
He said the partnership between Zambia and Japan demonstrates how international cooperation can contribute to sports development while strengthening the warm and friendly relations between the two countries.
The longstanding partnership between Japan and Zambia in the develo...