In a remarkable milestone for the martial arts community in Rwanda, the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) awarded Black Belts to 40 athletes on January 4. The ceremony followed a rigorous exam held from December 30-31, 2024 and was presided over by Master Niklas Enander, a 7th Dan Black Belt holder and member of the ITF Executive Committee. The recipients included those from Kigali, Rubavu District, Kirehe and the Mahama Refugee Camp, demonstrating the growing reach and inclusivity of ITF Taekwon-Do in Rwanda. “Rwanda’s ITF community is growing rapidly,” said Master Enander. “From no ITF presence in 2012 to now having 20 Black Belts, the progress is phenomenal. We’re laying the groundwork for Rwanda to compete on international stages like the African Championships in Ethiopia this August.” Master Enander, who has been a key figure in promoting ITF Taekwon-Do across Africa, highlighted the transformative potential of the martial art. “ITF Taekwon-Do is not just about combat, it's about personal growth. It improves focus, relaxation, and discipline, which can translate into success in school, work, and life,” he said. ITF Taekwon-Do was introduced in Rwanda in 2012 by Master Bagire Alain Irenewho noted the need for a more traditional and competitive approach compared to Olympic-style Taekwondo. “Taekwondo ITF focuses on full combat and risk-taking, qualities deeply rooted in Rwandan culture.Our goal is to develop the sport so our players can achieve medals regionally and globally,”said Bagire. Today, Rwanda boasts eight ITF clubs from Kigali, Rubavu, the Eastern Province, and Gako Army Base, serving around 300 practitioners. Bagire emphasized the importance of upcoming competitions, including the African Championships and the East African Tournament, as opportunities to showcase Rwandan talent. ALSO READ: World champion Christophe Pinna commits to uplift Rwandan Karate For athletes like Yvan Nkusi who transitioned to ITF Taekwon-Do in 2024, the journey to passing black belt test has been transformational. “At ITF, we focus on the whole body, not just the lower body as in Olympic Taekwondo,” said Nkusi, who recently earned his first Dan. “The training is rigorous, but it builds courage and discipline. This seminar has inspired us to aim higher and elevate Rwandan ITF Taekwon-Do globally.” Going forward, the ITF plans to expand training programs, with Master Enander committing to hosting a two-day seminar in July 2025. Nkusi also expressed hope that Rwandan athletes will soon compete at the African and World Championships, bringing home medals and recognition.
