Online Reporter
Tendai Chara-Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Africa Open Cup, a prestigious kickboxing championship, was successfully hosted at Allan Wilson School in Harare, bringing together elite fighters and officials from Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique.
The tournament was graced by the World Associations of Kickboxing Organisations Africa President Aslam Mahomed and Shihan Bafana Masiyela, South Africa’s development delegate and event co-ordinator.
Zimbabwe Kickboxing Association president Tony Kamangira and VP Grandmaster Ben, and respected delegates from across the region were also in attendance.
The competition featured competitors from multiple provinces across all categories—cadets, juniors and seniors—representing various institutions including the host school, Churchill, and Makumbe High from Murambinda.
Throughout the tournament, fighters demonstrated exceptional skill and exemplary sportsmanship.
Two standout main bouts showcased the calibre of talent on display.
The opening contest pitted South Africa’s Reginald Dikhupe against Mozambique’s Daniel Mize in a low kick style match that captivated spectators.
Dikhupe emerged victorious via split points decision in a thrilling encounter.
The grand finale featured South Africa’s Andrew Ndou against Zimbabwe’s Moses Mutungamberi in a full contact bout that lived up to its billing.
In the second round, following fierce exchanges in the centre of the ring, Mutungamberi executed a powerful high kick to Ndou’s head, securing a knockout victory.
The tournament’s organisational excellence was evident throughout.
Shihan Bafana’s oversight ensured fair and impartial judging across all matches, with no disputes raised.
Stringent safety protocols, supported by an experienced medical team on standby, prevented serious injuries.
Corporate sponsors and individual contributors provided invaluable logistical support, supplying the ring, trophies, medals, and other essential materials.
Dr Mahomed and Shihan Bafana commended the marked improvement in tournament standards.
According to match commissioner Master Eric Chengaose, all fighters and coaches demonstrated full compliance with rules and regulations, reflecting the professional conduct of the event.
According to Master Chengaose, everything went well.
“We got the ring and the medals on time. In terms of logistics, everything went smoothly.”
“In short, the tournament was a roaring success,” Master Chengaose, said.
The Africa Open Cup proved to be a resounding success, reinforcing the region’s commitment to excellence in kickboxing competition.
