Russia Expands Influence in Ethiopia with First Sambo Centre

Russia Opens First Sambo Centre in Ethiopia

In a strategic move to enhance relations with Ethiopia, Russia has inaugurated the East African nation’s very first Sambo centre. This new facility is part of an effort to promote collaboration between the two countries in sports and science. The Sambo centre is poised to introduce this unique martial art to Ethiopians of all ages, fostering stronger international ties.

What is Sambo?

Sambo is a modern combat sport and self-defense system that originated in the Soviet Union during the 1920s. The term “Sambo” is an abbreviation of the Russian phrase “SAMozashchita Bez Oruzhiya,” meaning “self-defense without weapons.” The sport combines elements of judo, wrestling, and traditional martial arts, with two main styles: Sport Sambo and Combat Sambo.

The newly opened Sambo centre in Ethiopia will play a crucial role in spreading awareness and practice of this dynamic discipline across the region.

Russia’s Role in Establishing the Sambo Centre

The Sambo centre in Ethiopia was established by the Karpinsky Russian Geological Research Institute. As part of the broader global initiative, “Sambo in Granite,” the project aims to introduce and develop Sambo throughout Africa, beginning with Ethiopia. The facility is expected to be a key resource for local communities to learn about and engage in Sambo, encouraging participation across all age groups.

Mikhail Rakhlin, a prominent Russian instructor and the President of the Judo Federation of St. Petersburg, visited Ethiopia to inaugurate the facility. Rakhlin highlighted the importance of sharing Russia’s experience in both sports and science, areas in which the country has made significant strides.

Strengthening Ties Between Russia and Ethiopia

According to Rakhlin, the Sambo centre serves as a bridge to enhance mutual respect and trust between Russia and Ethiopia. The initiative will begin with adult and student classes, gradually extending to younger generations. The long-term goal is to have Ethiopian athletes competing at international Sambo events, including the World Sambo Championship.

Pavel Khimchenko, Director-General of the Karpinsky Institute, expressed enthusiasm about Ethiopia’s future in Sambo. He emphasized that Ethiopia’s immediate goal is to participate in the African Championship, with hopes of one day competing on the world stage.

The History of Sambo in Africa

The spread of Sambo in Africa dates back to 1987, when Mr. Dalil Skalli, now the President of the African Sambo Confederation (CAS), founded Morocco’s national Sambo committee. Morocco hosted one of the first World Cups that same year, where the national team secured third place with two gold medals and one bronze. Since then, the sport has grown in popularity across the continent, with the Sambo Federation of Morocco continuing to be a key player in its development.

Future Prospects for Sambo in Ethiopia and Africa

The opening of Ethiopia’s first Sambo centre marks a significant milestone in the sport’s expansion across Africa. With government support and international collaboration, the Sambo community in Ethiopia is poised for rapid growth. The country’s involvement in the African Championship is just the beginning, with dreams of seeing African athletes competing at the World Sambo Championship in the near future.

By introducing Sambo to Ethiopia and other African nations, Russia is contributing to the development of the continent’s sporting culture, while also strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties between the two countries.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Sports Diplomacy

Russia’s investment in Ethiopia’s first Sambo centre is more than just a sporting initiative; it is a symbol of the growing cooperation between the two nations. As Ethiopia embraces Sambo, the country has the opportunity to cultivate a new generation of athletes while fostering deeper international relationships.

With the Sambo centre as a catalyst, Ethiopia’s sports culture is set for a dynamic transformation, and the ties between Russia and Ethiopia are likely to flourish in the coming years.