Forty-nine students in Zimbabwe have earned internationally recognised black belts in a graduation ceremony hosted by the World Taekwondo Federation at Epworth Local Board last Saturday.
The ceremony was attended by Tommy Sithole, Vice President of the World Taekwondo Federation, and Benson Zwizwai, President of the Zimbabwe Taekwondo Association, alongside instructors, parents, and community members.
Speaking to the graduates, Sithole praised their dedication, discipline, and enthusiasm for the sport, while also highlighting the challenges posed by limited funding for sports in the country.
“These students have shown remarkable talent and commitment,” Sithole said. “But many parents struggle to finance their children’s participation. In some cases, instructors are using their own resources to support students because associations lack sufficient funding.”
He noted that the high number of graduates reflects the vast untapped potential within Zimbabwe’s sporting community if proper support is provided.
Zwizwai congratulated the graduates, describing their achievement as more than just a certificate.
“Earning a black belt is a significant milestone,” he said. “It qualifies athletes to compete at World Taekwondo Championships. Without at least a first dan black belt, participation is not allowed.”
Zwizwai further highlighted the growth of taekwondo in Zimbabwe. The country previously had only seven taekwondo masters, but with the graduation of the fourth dan candidates, seven more have now been added.
Among the 49 graduates, 38 earned first-dan black belts, four achieved second dan, and seven attained fourth dan, officially recognising them as taekwondo masters.
Epworth Taekwondo Club Master Kashiri, who recently achieved a fourth dan, thanked the Epworth Local Board for hosting the ceremony. He urged graduates to continue striving for excellence and to represent Zimbabwe on the international stage.
“Let us work hard and carry the Zimbabwean flag high globally,” Master Kashiri said.
The graduation ceremony was celebrated as a major boost for taekwondo in Zimbabwe, showcasing the country’s growing talent and commitment to martial arts development.
