About Us

about 50+ Years of Experience
About us

At the core of our organization is the practice of So-Kyokushin Karate.

Zimbabwe So-Kyokushin Karate-Do is a non-profit organization led by its Branch Chief - Shihan Samson Muripo, dedicated to promoting the practice of So-Kyokushin Karate-Do in Zimbabwe. We focus on fostering personal development, physical fitness, and character building among our members. By providing quality training, promoting core values, and serving our community, we aim to create a positive and impactful martial arts experience for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.


At the core of our organization is the practice of So-Kyokushin Karate. We believe that through the disciplined training and study of this martial art, individuals can unlock their full potential and achieve personal growth on multiple levels.


One of our primary goals is to provide a platform for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to engage in the practice of So-Kyokushin Karate. We offer regular training sessions, workshops, and seminars conducted by highly skilled instructors who are dedicated to sharing their knowledge and expertise. Our training programs are designed to cater to various skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, ensuring that everyone can find a suitable path for their karate journey.


We strongly believe that the benefits of practicing So-Kyokushin Karate extend far beyond the physical aspects. Our organization places great emphasis on character building and personal development. We strive to instill values such as discipline, respect, integrity, and humility in our members. Through the rigorous training and challenges offered by So-Kyokushin Karate, individuals learn to overcome obstacles, develop self-control, and cultivate a strong work ethic that can positively impact all areas of their lives.

Our Mission

To identify, develop, promote and facilitate growth and to control the study and practice of So-Kyokushin karate.

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Our Values

The values of So-Kyokushin Karate-Do Organization can vary depending on its specific philosophy and guiding principles. However, here are some commonly observed values in many karate organizations:

Fitness and Health

We emphasize the importance of physical fitness and overall health. We, the So-Kyokushin Karate community, are encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, proper nutrition, and good physical conditioning.

Discipline

So-Kyokushin places great emphasis on discipline, which involves following rules, showing respect to instructors and fellow practitioners, and maintaining self-control.

Respect

Respect is a fundamental value in karate. All So-Kyokushin karatekas are expected to respect their instructors, seniors, and fellow students. This value extends to respecting oneself, opponents, and the art of karate itself.

Integrity

So-Kyokushin members are encouraged to be honest, truthful, and uphold strong moral principles both inside and outside the dojo (training hall).

Sportsmanship

So-Kyokushin often promote sportsmanship and fair play. We compete with honor, respecting their opponents and displaying good sportsmanship regardless of the outcome.

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Our Vision

Our vision is to inspire individuals to reach their full potential through the practice of So-Kyokushin karate, fostering personal growth, and cultivating a community of empowered and compassionate Karatekas.

As a So-Kyokushin Karate organization, we have specific targets that contribute to our mission and vision. These targets may include:


Target – Membership Growth

We strive to increase our membership base by attracting individuals who are interested in practicing and experiencing So-Kyokushin Karate. Our aim is to create a community of dedicated practitioners who share a passion for the art and contribute to its growth.

Training Excellence

We target the continuous improvement of our training programs and the development of high-quality instructors. We focus on providing structured and progressive training methodologies that enable practitioners to enhance their skills, physical fitness, and understanding of So-Kyokushin Karate.

Competition Success

For those members interested in competitive karate, we target success in local, national, and international tournaments. We provide training and support for competitive athletes, nurturing their skills, and helping them achieve their fullest potential in the competitive arena.

Community Outreach

We aim to make a positive impact beyond our organization by engaging in community outreach activities. This may include organizing self-defense workshops, participating in charity events, or partnering with local schools and community centers to introduce the benefits of So-Kyokushin Karate to a wider audience.

International Collaboration

As part of our global vision, we target collaboration and exchange with other So-Kyokushin Karate-Do Organizations worldwide. We seek opportunities to connect with practitioners and instructors from different countries, fostering cultural exchange, knowledge sharing, and the growth of So-Kyokushin Karate as a global martial arts community.

Promotion of Core Values

We aim to promote and uphold the core values of So-Kyokushin Karate, such as discipline, respect, integrity, and perseverance. Our target is to ensure that these values are integrated into every aspect of our organization, from training sessions to competitions, and from individual interactions to community engagements.

Belt Advancement

We set goals for our members to progress through the belt ranks, following the established curriculum of So-Kyokushin Karate. We provide clear guidelines and regular assessments to ensure that members have the opportunity to challenge themselves, set personal goals, and advance in their karate journey.

Our Organogram

Technical Board Organogram

Athelete's Commission Organogram

Team

Meet with our Team
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David Mutemachani

Chairman

Is a Chartered Surveyor with years of experience at Senior Corporate Level and Private Practice levels. His areas of expertise include real estate finance and development, asset management, infrastructure economics, real estate and infrastructure investment appraisal and advisory, property valuations and corporate strategy. He is a holder of MBA majoring in Financial Services, an MSc in Real Estate, an MSc in Quantity Surveying and BSc (Hon) Economics, Diploma in Surveying and other related certifications.

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Mr. Liberty Maidza

Vice Chairman

Is a highly accomplished, result oriented and self motivated sports marketer with vast experience in the sports business. Background in sports management, marketing, education and coaching (technical). Highly skilled at project development and management, strategic planning, client relations and financial management. Multiple degrees, diplomas and certifications. A good team player endowed with outstanding interpersonal, communication and good organisational skills.

He is a holder of Master of Strategic Marketing: UZ, 2018 (Dissertation Topic: The Role of Sport in Nation Branding: A case of Zimbabwe), BSc Physical Education and Sport: ZOU, 2005, Diploma in Education: UZ ,1995, Diploma in Management of Olympic Sports Organisations: IOC, 2011, Diploma in Coaching: Budapest, 2004, Strategic Planning Certificate: ZOC, 2017, and Certificate in Project Design, Monitoring and Evaluation: CUT, 2021.

  • Director: Sports, Culture and Recreation: Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT) from August 2019 – Present
  • Deputy Director: Sports and Recreation: University of Zimbabwe (UZ) from November 2009 – July 2019
  • Group Sports Officer: Bindura Nickel Corporation Limited (BNC) from March 2006 – October 2009
  • Sports Officer: AA Mines - Gath’s Mine from September 2004 – February 2006
  • District Physical Education and Sports Co-ordinator - Ministry of Education, Sports, Arts and Culture – Makoni District from May 2000 – August 2004

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Shihan Samson Muripo

Branch Chief

He is the Branch Chief for So-Kyokushin Karate-Do Organisation in Zimbabwe, as well as the Development Ambassador for Africa. He has a record-breaking 2-time World Karate Champion and has Attained 24 Medals between the period of 2005 - 2019:

  • 2 World Championships Gold Medals
  • 2 World Championships Silver Medals
  • 1 World Championships Bronze Medal
  • 6 International Gold Medals
  • 5 International Silver Medals
  • 2 International Bronze Medals
  • 5 Regional Gold Medals and
  • 1 Local Silver Medal
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Shihan George Mutambu - 5th Dan

Vice Chairman of Zimbabwe So-Kyokushin Karate-Do Organisation Technical Board
  • Multiple regional open weight champion 1996-1997
  • National Champion open weight 1996,1999,2000
  • National Middle weight champion 2003,2004
  • Karate South Africa Championships silver medalist 2006,2007,2008
  • Quarter finalist open weight world Kyokushin Union Tornament Khazakstan 2011.
  • Graded 1st Kyu by Shihan Kenny Uyetenbogart
  • Graded 2nd Dan by Shihan Bas Van Stenis - 2006
  • Graded 3rd Dan by Shihan Bas Van Stenis - 2012
  • Graded 4th Dan by Shihan Hanshi Daigo Oishi - July 2017
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Doctor Tafadzwa Nyamukapa

Co-Organizational Doctor

Holder of MBChB, MMED Peadiatrics from the University of Zimbabwe.Registered with the Medical and Dental Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe(MDPCZ) Specialist Register(Paediatrics). DCH University of Sydney(Aus). Committee member of the Paediatric Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) Executive. Zimbabwe Medical Association(ZIMA) Midlands Chapter Executive - Treasurer. Chairperson and lecturer - Department of Paediatrics Midlands State University(MSU). Co-Organizational Dr Zimbabwe Kyokushin Karate.

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Shihan Kumbirai Musinami

-Technical Director and Chairman of the Technical Board-

Holder of Institute Of Administration And Commerce (IAC): Diploma in Marketing and Marketing Management has introduced many brands in confectionary and non alcoholic beverages and various FMCGs in the Zimbabwe market. Started Martial arts in 1984 doing Saidokan. Graded up to Shodan in Saidokan Karate before starting Judo, graded Up to 1st Kyu. Has been training Kyokushin karate for the past 38 years.

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Doctor Nyararai Togarepi

Co-Organizational Doctor

Holder of MBChB,MMED(Neurosurgery) from University of Zimbabwe. Registered with The Medical and Dental practitioner’s council of Zimbabwe(MDPCZ) Specialist register(Neurosurgery).Completed Senior fellowships in Craniofacial and Paediatric Neurosurgery(Birmingham). A member of the Zimbabwe association of Neurosurgical Society(ZANS),Surgical society of Zimbabwe(SSZ)and International society for Paediatric Neurosurgery(ISPN). Zimbabwe Doctors Association in U.K. (ZDA-U.K.)- Treasurer

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Engineer Martin Manuhwa

PATRON

Eng. Martin Manuhwa is an Electrical and Energy consultant engineer and is currently the Managing Director of Zimbabwe Africa Infrastructure Development Group (ZAIDG) a company that specializes in Engineering Procurement and Construction Management (EPCM). He is the Current Chairman of CHINHOYI University of Technology (CUT) and Zimbabwe Iron and Steel Company (ZISCO). He is also a past President of the Africa Federation of Engineering Organisations (FAEO) and Founding President of the Southern African Federation of Engineering Organisations (SAFEO). He is a holder of MBA from- Strategic Management and a Bachelor of Technology Honours - Electrical and Electronics Engineering, with the University of Zimbabwe. Other Activities and societies: Vice President - World Federation of Engineering Organisations and Chair of Engineering Capacity Building , Past President Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers (ZIE) and the Engineering Council of Zimbabwe (ECZ). He is a member of several professional organisations including WFEO, Global Infrastructure Anti-Corruption Centre (GIACC).

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Blessing Z. Ndoro

Marketing Executive

Holder of a Masters of commerce in marketing strategy (MSU) Master of Business Administration. (UZ) Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing Management. (MSU) BA Hons Monitoring and Evaluation. (MSU).

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Sir Edward T. Veremu

Advisor - Technical Board

Holder of MSc in Finance degree (Leicester University, UK), Postgraduate Diploma in Business Studies (Nottingham Trent University, UK), Associate member of the Chartered Governance and Accountancy Institute in Zimbabwe (ACGI) formerly CIS and Certified Public Accountants and Auditors Board (PAAB). Renowned professional finance guru with more than 25 years of International NGO experience at senior management level. Currently providing consultancy services to NGOs and small to medium enterprises.

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Loice Chatizah

Secretary General

Holder of Honours Insurance and Risk Management and Executive Certificate in Risk Management with (UZ) Masters in Big Data Analytics (CUT) and Msc Business Leadership (BUSE). Holder of Diploma in Advanced Sports Management Course (ZOC) . A Certificate of participation and Best group with International Centre of Martial Arts for youth Development and Engagement under the auspices of UNESCO.

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Rumbidzai Takawira

Public Relations Executive

Rumbidzai Takawira is a Zimbabwean television personality, Broadcast Journalist and Communications Consultant. Rumbidzai is the Director of MedEsther Brands PR, a top-tier multi-media company specializing in public relations, corporate communications, marketing, broadcast media, corporate social investment, and philanthropy. With extensive experience in leadership and martial arts, she brings a unique blend of strategic acumen and discipline to her work. She is the former Secretary General of the Zimbabwe Karate Union and is a 1st Kyu SoKyokushin Karate Student with over a decade experience as a Karateka

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Evans Mutsahuni

Vice Secretary General

Para legal and Administration - Since 2012 at C Mutsahuni Chikore and Partiners.

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Masline Wadzanai Manhanga

Fundraising Chairperson

Young Entrepreneur, Researcher & Student Journalist

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Advocate David Ochieng

Executive Board Member - Legal Affairs

Is a commercial practice advocate at the Harare Bar. The board leans heavily on his expertise in regard to matters of compliance. Armed with degrees in diplomacy and international law, he is also a key resource in the organisation’s policy formulation and external relations. Away from kyokushin karate, he is a student of Okinawa Kobudo Kazokukai and an aviation enthusiast.

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Sensei Allen Makufeni – 4th Dan

Executive Board Member & Coach - Technical Board

Is a holder of Diploma In Education Primary Level - Physical Education And Sport (Pes) - Marymount Teachers' College, and Currently Studying Bachelor Of Science (Honours) In Physical Education And Sport (Bscphes) with ZOU.

SPORT COACHING AND ADMINISTRATION COURSES AND CERTIFICATES:

  • Level One (1) International karate Coaching Black belt Certificate (International Karate Organization World Kyokushin Union IKO WKU).
  • Level Two (2) International karate Coaching Black belt Certificate (International Karate Organization World So Kyokushin Japan IKO WSKJ)
  • Level One (1) Rugby IRB Play the Game Coaching Certificate (Zimbabwe Rugby Union ZRU).
  • Level One (1) Athletics National Coaching Certificate (National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe NAAZ)
  • Level Two (2) Athletics National Coaching Certificate (National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe NAAZ)
  • Fitness Trainer Orientation Course Certificate ( NOVA College CIOS Haarlem)
  • Sport Leader Certificate (Mutare Haarlem Sport Leaders Organization MHS)
  • Sport Administration Level One (1) (Sport and Recreation Commission SRC)
  • Coaching Theory Level One (1) (Sport and Recreation Commission SRC)
  • Six Course Introductory Training in Sport, Disabilities and Social Inclusion ( Sport 4 Socialization S4S)
  • Organization of Events, Community Sport, First Aid (Red Cross Society of Zimbabwe), Advanced Computer Course (Mutare Teachers’ College MTC), 2 year certificate in Theology with Greater Grace Bible College of Zimbabwe, Extra Workshops.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:

  • Sport leader -Mutare Haarlem Sport leaders Organisation: 2005 to 2012
  • Physical Education Sport And Mass Displays Teacher - Ministry Of Primary And Secondary Education, Mt Dangare Primary School: 2021 to date
  • Part Time Fitness Trainer And Karate Teacher -Raylton Sports Club Gym Mutare, 2009 to date
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Sensei NAISON CHITUWA - 3rd Dan

Technical Board - Coach
  • 2012 - S.A TOURNAMENT in Thokoza - 2nd place
  • 2013 - Shanghai International Karate Tournament in Shanghai, China - 2nd place
  • 2015 - All Japan Karate Tournament in Shizuoka City, Japan - lost in the last 16
  • He is a fitness trainer, a boxing coach, a karate instructor and a conflict manager.

We strongly believe that the benefits of practicing So-Kyokushin Karate extend far beyond the physical aspects.

Our organization places great emphasis on character building and personal development. We strive to instill values such as discipline, respect, integrity, and humility in our members.

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