Namibia’s karate talent was on full display in Windhoek on Saturday as the Namibia Karate Federation (NKF) crowned 53 national champions at its 2026 All Styles Junior and Senior National Championships.
Held on 19 September, the championship brought together athletes from all four NKF-affiliated clubs, competing in kata and kumite under World Karate Federation rules. A total of 177 medals were awarded, comprising 53 gold, 53 silver and 71 bronze.
Of the 159 athletes who placed, 145 earned at least one medal, while 32 recorded multiple podium finishes. Every participating club produced at least one national champion.
NKF president De Wet Moolman praised the standard of competition and organisation, saying the championships were conducted to an international standard. “We are very happy with the quality of the championship we hosted,” Moolman said.
Five athletes stood out by claiming double gold: Paulus Makemba, Mikayla Geyser, Caitlyn van Wyk, Mia Eve Brockerhoff and Dylan Grove. The senior divisions were closely contested, with four clubs sharing the six titles.
The senior champions included Katelin Martin, Keanu Stuurman, Elizabeth Mwiya, Julio Coleman, Timothy Mwiya and Freddy Martin. In the Senior Grand Champion categories, Keanu Stuurman of JSKA Namibia claimed the men’s title, while Nankole Mazila and Katelin Martin of Goju Kai Namibia shared the women’s crown.
Youth development remained a major feature of the championship. Of the 53 divisions contested, 31 were children’s, under-14 and cadet categories, while nine were junior, seven under-21 and six senior divisions. Kumite accounted for 41 titles, with 12 decided in kata.
Moolman said the strong junior turnout was encouraging as Namibia prepares for major international competitions, including the Region 5 Youth Games in December, the All African Games in 2027 and the Commonwealth Games.
“This is where our future is being built,” he said. “Namibian karate is on a good road.”
The NKF thanked referees, technical officials, coaches, parents, volunteers and athletes for contributing to the successful championship. Full results are available through the Sportdata SET-Online platform.
By Rudi Bowe
