Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
TATENDA KAMBARAMI still cannot believe it.
Standing on the podium in Lusaka, Zambia, clutching her gold medal after conquering the Women’s Open division at the 1st Kyokushin Kenbukaikan World Championship, she felt something shift inside her.
It was not just pride or relief.
It was conviction and the realisation that she belonged on the world stage.
“Winning the World Championship title is an incredible achievement, and it means a lot to me,” she said, her voice still carrying the excitement of that moment.
“It’s not the end but just the beginning of more achievements to come. I promise my country that I am still looking forward to more big events, and I am ready to represent the nation. I want Zimbabwe to be proud of me.”
The Rusape-born fighter was one of 30 Zimbabweans who travelled to Zambia for the championship a few weeks ago.
For Kambarami, it was a debut on the global stage, a bold leap for someone who only began practising karate at 32.
Now 34, she has transitioned from a hesitant beginner to a world champion in barely two years, a journey that has inspired both admiration and disbelief.
“I always liked karate growing up, but I thought it was for men only,” she said.
“One day, I just told myself I was going to give it a try. At first, I was scared of physical contact and being hurt. But now it’s easy; I am used to it. I have fought, won and gained experience. The way we train, the harder you train, the easier you fight.”
Her journey in the sport has been marked by rapid progress.
In 2022, she placed third at the Samson Muripo Regional Kyokushin Karate Tournament, an event honouring Zimbabwe’s first world champion. That same year, she won the Zimbabwe Ashihara Tournament.
In 2023, she triumphed at the Japanese Ambassador’s Cup, took bronze at South Africa’s 11th AFCKO Tournament and clinched first place at the IKO Nakamura Zimbabwe Champion of Champions.
Those results built the foundation for her biggest moment yet in Lusaka.
She admits that competing internationally for the first time was intimidating, but the reward was worth the risk.
“I learnt that if you are determined and serious about what you do, you can achieve all you want,” she said.
“The big stage calls for character and big dreams.”
Her inspiration runs deep.
She credits her family, friends and mentors for shaping her rise, especially former world champion Samson Muripo, whose guidance she treasures.
“I am grateful for the support of my coaches, family and friends. Specifically, Shihan Samson Muripo; he has been instrumental in my development as a karateka.”
Even with a world title to her name, Kambarami is not getting carried away.
She is still chasing her first black belt and is painfully aware of the financial challenges that come with being a female athlete in a niche sport.
“It hasn’t been easy due to limited funding,” she said, “but I am eager to make a name for myself.”
The victory, though, has done more than boost her self-belief. It has cemented her sense of purpose.
“I intend to keep training as hard as possible, keep my body in shape and stay ready for tournaments. I want to defend my title, win more accolades and continue putting my country on the map. I will work hard, stay focused and build on the lessons I have learned.”
Her sporting idol is American boxing champion Claressa “T-Rex” Shields, another woman who defied stereotypes to dominate her field. Kambarami says she draws strength from Shields’ resilience and self-belief.
“My vision for the future is to keep competing at the highest level, winning more titles and inspiring others through my achievements.”
Off the tatami (soft mat), she is grounded.
“Besides karate, I enjoy spending time with family and friends,” she said.
“I believe in balancing my life and prioritising my relationships.”
Her coach, Evans Mutsahuni, sees her rise as both remarkable and motivational.
“Tatenda is a dedicated karate practitioner, who has worked very hard and won quite a number of medals, including a gold medal . . . As a coach, seeing an athlete win a medal is the culmination of years of consistent hard work, perseverance, discipline, hope and sacrifice,” he said.
“She will win more medals globally, and this will motivate youngsters, particularly the girl child.”
From Rusape to the world, Kambarami’s story is a reminder that it is never too late to chase a dream.
Tinaye Agere