Some 23 countries – including hosts Rwanda – have registered for the upcoming 17th African Seniors Karate Championships and the 9th African Juniors Karate Championships to be held in Rwanda for the very first time.

This has been confirmed by the Rwanda Karate Federation (FERWAKA) president, Theogene Uwayo, who says more could show intent before the games begin.

Online registration is open up to August 25 after which registration may be done with a fine, Uwayo said.

From August 28 to September 2, Rwanda will host the Continental Championships at the Intare Conference Arena, in Rusororo.

As of Thursday afternoon, 277 players had registered in different categories, in addition to 50 officials, 48 referees, and 47 coaches.

Uwayo said the venue is ready to host what is billed as the biggest and most glamorous karate event on the continent.

Egyptian expert, Mohamed Hashim Mohamed, arrived on July 12 to assist with the national team’s preparations.

Rwanda has registered a squad of 30 players, including 12 girls, for the tournament.

The players will participate in different competition categories; as teams and in the individual category both fighting (Kumite) and Kata sections. Kata is display of a set sequence of moves in a pre-arranged fight against imaginary opponents.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw