Zambia to Host Southern African Judo Championships for the First Time
Zambia is set to host the Southern African Judo Championships for the first time, bringing together cadet and senior athletes from across Southern Africa.
The two-day regional tournament will take place on 4–5 April 2026 at the Olympic Youth Development Centre in Lusaka.
The championships will see cadet athletes compete on 4 April, followed by senior competitors on 5 April, with the event also serving as a qualifier for the Africa Union Sports Council Region 5 Youth Games to be held in Mozambique.
Participating teams are expected from 10 Southern African countries, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Angola, Malawi, Lesotho, Eswatini and hosts Zambia.
Speaking during the launch of the event, Mabvuto Ng’uni said the championships are significant for both young and senior athletes in the region.
“For cadets, this tournament is a qualifier for the Region 5 Youth Games, while for seniors it provides an opportunity to gain international exposure and prepare for upcoming competitions,” Ng’uni said.
He explained that each participating country is allowed to register two athletes per weight category, with eight categories for each gender.
“That means 32 cadets per country, and if all 10 countries participate, we expect about 500 athletes in total, with cadets alone accounting for around 320,” he said.
Ng’uni also noted that the tournament will follow international competition standards.
“Where there are six or more athletes in a category, two bronze medals will be awarded under the double repechage system. Where there are five or fewer, only one bronze medal will be given. In all cases, athletes will compete for gold, silver and bronze,” he explained.
He added that Zambia is ready to host the competition but noted that financial support from government remains essential.
“We have worked with OYDC, the Sports Council and the judo family to put logistics in place. Hosting is a huge task and we have requested government support to meet the costs,” Ng’uni said.
Preparations for the event are currently underway, with organisers coordinating logistics to ensure smooth participation for all delegations.
“The deadline for team bookings and data submission is 15 March, and we are coordinating transport, accommodation and immigration clearance to ensure smooth arrivals for all delegations,” he added.
Ng’uni also highlighted the broader economic and sporting benefits the championships will bring to Zambia.
“Teams will book accommodation, pay for meals and spend locally. This money will remain in Zambia. Our athletes, many of whom have never competed internationally, will also get the chance to showcase their talent against regional opponents,” he said.
