The Malawi Karate Team wrapped up its international assignments in style yesterday, claiming two gold, four silver, and one bronze medal at the Kurai Open Championship held in Harare, Zimbabwe.
This success comes hot on the heels of their remarkable performance at the Lusaka Karate Open Championship in Zambia on November 9, where the team bagged three gold, three silver, and two bronze medals.
Leading the charge was Samantha Mwamondwe, whose exceptional form continued from Lusaka. She clinched gold in the under-15 girls’ kata category. Joining her at the top of the podium was Pempho Datchi, who also won gold in the under-17 girls’ kata, showcasing skill and determination.
The team also celebrated strong performances from Maureen Justin who won silver in the under-15 girls’ kata, with Catherine Chawinga adding another silver in the same category. Samantha Mwamondwe further demonstrated her versatility by winning silver in the under-15 girls’ kumite, while Chimwemwe Lemon added to the tally with silver in the under-17 boys’ kata. Justin’s impressive run continued with a bronze in the under-15 girls’ kumite.
In the men’s senior category, Chikondi Mwamlima delivered a stellar performance to secure silver in kata, while Kelvin Chimdima added a bronze to the team’s medal count.
Both the boys’ and girls’ teams displayed remarkable teamwork and resilience, earning third place in the kumite team events.
These back-to-back tournaments—the Lusaka Open and the Kurai Open—serve as critical preparations for the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Under-20 Youth Games, scheduled for June next year in Namibia.