Musangwe (traditional bare-knuckle fighting) enthusiasts from across the country are gearing up for a major festive-season tournament.
The opening ceremony at Tshifudi Stadium on 6 December will mark a significant milestone as Musangwe launches its biggest event to date. Entry will be free, ensuring broad community participation.
Tshifudi Musangwe committee member Thendo Netshirando said preparations were at an advanced stage. "This year introduces groundbreaking changes. Women will not only be spectators but also participants, breaking barriers and expanding the spirit of Musangwe. Boys will also be celebrated with gifts, reinforcing the values of discipline, courage, and heritage. Beyond the ring, Musangwe is becoming a game changer for education and development," he said.
Netshirando said the organisation had secured Cisco accreditation, giving the community access to free courses, including Networking Essentials, Cybersecurity Fundamentals and IT Essentials. "These globally recognised skills will empower rural youths with opportunities in technology. In addition, we are in the process of obtaining QCTO accreditation to introduce filmmaking courses, enabling locals to document Musangwe and showcase it worldwide for future generations. We are also in talks with the government for sponsorship, hopeful for support in providing computers and internet connectivity. Tshifudi, as a rural area, urgently needs development and this partnership would ensure Musangwe becomes not only a cultural celebration but also a hub of education, technology, and opportunity," he said.
Former champion Khodani "Cena" Nephalama, who became champion in 2019 after defeating Lufuno "Checkers" Gethe, is making a comeback after a long break. "Musangwe is my game, and I only took a break after realising I was not getting the challenge I wanted. I am still strong and fit, and it is going to be fireworks this year. I am ready for any potential challenger, and I am going to show them what I am made of," he said.