Patience Muchemwa- Senior Reporter
Zimbabwe’s celebrated martial arts icon, Shihan Wilfred Mashaya, has once again taken his passion and talent onto the global stage.
The former Kobudo World Champion departed Harare on Thursday for Budva, Montenegro, where he will represent Zimbabwe at the prestigious World Humanitarian Festival of Martial Arts, scheduled for 6–7 September 2025.
This year’s festival is being held under the theme “Stop Suicide” in commemoration of World Suicide Prevention Day.
The event is not merely a display of martial arts excellence, but also a platform to spread a global message of hope, resilience, and solidarity in addressing one of society’s most pressing challenges.
The gathering will draw Grand Masters, Masters, and martial artists from across the globe, with programmes designed to exchange skills, techniques, and experiences through intensive training seminars.
An award ceremony will also be held to honour outstanding practitioners.
Among those recognised will be Shihan Mashaya, whose dedication to the discipline and efforts in promoting martial arts in Zimbabwe have earned him respect far beyond the country’s borders.
Speaking before his departure, Shihan Mashaya said: “It is a great honour to represent my country on this global platform.
Beyond martial arts, this festival is about spreading a message of hope and reminding people that life is worth fighting for. I want to stand with the world in saying no to suicide and yes to resilience, discipline, and unity.”
Event organiser Grand Master Lazarevic praised Mashaya’s resilience and determination, noting that his ability to thrive despite challenges has made him a role model for both the martial arts community and the wider public.
This trip also forms part of Mashaya’s preparations for the ICO World Championship in Wales, United Kingdom, set for 15–20 October 2025.
At that tournament, he will lead a 20-member Zimbabwean team—including children and women competitors—as they aim to make their mark on the global stage.
For Mashaya personally, it is also a chance to reclaim the Kobudo World title, which he was unable to defend last year due to financial constraints.
With his commitment, talent, and leadership, Mashaya continues to embody the spirit of perseverance and excellence.
His journey to Montenegro, and soon to Wales, highlights not only his personal pursuit of glory but also Zimbabwe’s growing presence in the world of martial arts.
Support from well-wishers and the corporate community is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that both he and his team achieve their goals.
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