Madagascar fires strong warning ahead of Nairobi Karate showpiece
Reading Time: 3min | Wed. 27.05.26. | 11:07
Madagascar has over the years built a formidable reputation on the African karate scene and remains one of the continent’s top-performing nations in the sport
Madagascar have sent an early warning to hosts Kenya and the rest of the region after becoming the first delegation to arrive in Nairobi ahead of the highly anticipated UFAK Region East Karate Championships scheduled for Thursday, 28 to Sunday, 31 May, at the Nyayo National Stadium Indoor Arena.
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The confident Malagasy team landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Tuesday afternoon, carrying not only their luggage but also strong ambitions of dominating the regional showpiece.
Led by Madagascar Karate Federation president Dr Emile Ratefimanamary, the delegation immediately declared its intention to challenge for gold medals across multiple categories in what is expected to be one of the most competitive editions of the championship.
Madagascar has, over the years, built a formidable reputation on the African karate scene and remains one of the continent’s top-performing nations in the sport.
Their arrival has already added excitement to the tournament atmosphere as Kenya prepares to host athletes, coaches, referees and officials from across East Africa.
Speaking shortly after arriving in Nairobi, Dr Ratefimanamary commended Kenya for hosting the prestigious regional competition while expressing confidence in his team’s preparations.
“We are glad to be in Nairobi, Kenya, for this wonderful competition. It is never easy to host such championships, and for Kenya to do so deserves much appreciation.
We have a very competitive team that is ready to compete well and fight for top honours in every category,” said Dr Ratefimanamary.
His sentiments were echoed by head coach Ricko Rakotonanana, who revealed that the team had undergone intensive preparations ahead of the championship.
The tactician insisted Madagascar would not be intimidated despite the strong competition expected from hosts Kenya and other participating nations.
“We have prepared well, and the athletes we have entered are our best. We know other countries, including the hosts, are also looking to win, but we shall give our best,” said Rakotonanana.
The arrival of Team Madagascar marks the beginning of what is expected to be a colourful week of elite karate action in Nairobi, with organisers confirming that 11 more countries are expected to arrive on Wednesday.
The championship will begin with technical training sessions and seminars for referees and coaches before the actual competition gets underway on Saturday and Sunday at the iconic Nyayo Stadium Indoor Arena.
Kenya is expected to field a strong team backed by home support as they seek to defend national pride against regional rivals, including Madagascar, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Ethiopia.
Fans are expected to witness explosive contests, tactical brilliance and displays of discipline synonymous with high-level karate competition.
With rivalries already beginning to build even before the opening ceremony, the stage is set for a memorable championship that will not only celebrate sporting excellence but also promote unity and friendship among nations in the East African region.
Team Madagascar Delegation
Dr Emile Ratefimanamary (President), Zanakolona Hermann (Referee and Translator), Ricko Rakotonanana (Coach), Christian Rajaonarison, Sudrianarivo Ny Aina, Ravelonarivo Audhy, and Andriamihajatiana Mondeloy.