Afcko introduces self-defence classes
“I have been involved in karate for more than 20 years and have seen how other associations operate.
African Full Contact Karate Organisation (Afcko) clubs look to adapt to the new normal under Covid-19 regulations as they plan to introduce self-defence classes on May 29 at Mpotsheng Secondary School.
The classes will take place on weekdays between 4pm and 5.30pm.
With the rising number of gender-based violence case in our country, the Afcko saw it fit to start self-defence classes to equip students with self-defence skills.
Afcko is a Katlehong-based NPO that aims to promote and empower boxing clubs nationwide. The NPO was initiated by Thulane Sibisi (48) in 2013.
Sibisi said their main focus is to empower clubs with community development in administration, fund-raising and marketing.
“I have been involved in karate for more than 20 years and have seen how other associations operate. They concentrate more on physical training than assisting with the operation of the clubs, forgetting that there is a lot of administration that needs to be done,” said Sibisi.
“I saw a gap after noticing many clubs can produce the best fighters but when it comes to creating opportunities for their fighters to compete in provincial, national or international championships they struggle with funds.
“The associations don’t empower the instructors on topics like how to raise funds, sourcing funds, marketing the club and holding onto the best fighters.
“We have social problems in our communities, you might find that a person is good in karate but they are affected by social challenges like unemployment which will eventually hinder them from eating nutritious food,” said Sibisi.
Afcko has 15 affiliates nationwide: Kyokushin Karate Club, Abraham Hlophe Dojo, Southern Suburbs Dojo, Zakariya Park Dojo, Sebokeng Dojo, Dawn Park Dojo, Manzini Dojo, Alafang Dojo, Sijabulile Dojo and Thokoza Dojo in Gauteng. Others included Cape Flats Dojo in Cape Town, Baker Dojo in KZN, Uitenhage Dojo in the Eastern Cape and Zamdela Dojo in the Free State.
Sibisi said due to lockdown it has been difficult for full contact karate to train online because students cannot afford online training.
“We are limited in what we can do as students are expected to stay at home since the lockdown began. We hope by May restrictions will be better,” he said.
Plans for 2021
The organisation is looking forward to hosting the Kumite Tournament on May 29.
“We will also participate in a kata online competition, which is a challenge for the majority of our students since it requires data to compete online.
“At the moment we are preparing our students for the online fifth International Kyokushin Kai Karate Federation tournament, which will be hosted in Azerbaijan,” said Sibisi.
Donations
Sibisi expressed his gratitude to the Gauteng sports and recreation department in the City of Ekurhuleni, Pure Gas in Alrode, National Lottery and the community for donations.
He said the organisation is grateful for the assistance they received in December.
“Many thanks to people who contributed to the success of this organisation since 2013 by donating sanitary towels and school stationery to assist our karate students, siyabonga.
“We are still in need of food parcels, karate uniforms, school uniforms and sanitary towels,” said Sibisi.
To donate contact Sibisi on 083 599 5916 or at thulane2005@gmail.com
