In a quiet training hall in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, 8-year-old Amina Mwikali, a student at Githunguri Primary School, executes a perfect horse stance, her determination far outweighing her young age. A rising star in Kenya’s martial arts scene, Mwikali has earned recognition as one of the youngest practitioners to train for senior honours in kungfu. 

Her journey, which began as a way to build self-esteem and self-protection, has now turned into a beacon of inspiration for her peers and the community. Standing among a cohort of young martial artists, she embodies the resilience and focus that Kenyan policymakers hope to instil in thousands of students nationwide. 

Kungfu and other martial arts will soon make their way into the country’s national school curriculum, so children like Mwikali are at the forefront of a movement that promises more than physical skills; it offers improved health, discipline, confidence, and self-defence. 

For Mwikali, kungfu is more than just a sport. “Kungfu makes me feel brave,” she said, her voice steady and proud. “I can protect myself; it also helps me to respect others and work hard in everything I do.” 

Martial arts in school curriculum  

Mwikali’s journey reflects a broader story unfolding in Kenya as the government charts a bold path to revolutionise physical education. 

Kipchumba Murkomen, cabinet secretary in the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, recently confirmed a ground-breaking partnership with the Ministry of Education. Speaking during an interview, Murkomen pledged to integrate kungfu, alongside other martial arts like karate, judo, and taekwondo, into the physical education curriculum by January 2025. 

“This initiative is not just about teaching children how to defend themselves,” said Murkomen. “It’s about cultivating discipline, building self-esteem, and preparing our youth to tackle life’s challenges head-on.” 

The move comes in response to rising concerns over violence against children and the need for innovative approaches to student development. 

Murkomen emphasised the holistic benefits of martial arts, from mental focus to physical fitness, aligning with broader goals of youth empowerment and safety. The government move has received much support from the kungfu community in Kenya. School classes have already begun this holiday season.  

Ngaruiya Njoroge, chairman of the Kungfu Wushu Association of Kenya (KFWAK), hailed the initiative as a historic step for the martial arts community. “We are committed to providing schools with certified coaches who understand both the physical and philosophical aspects of kungfu,” said Njoroge. 

He noted that for decades, kungfu has been seen as a niche sport; and now, it’s being recognised as an essential tool for character-building and self-defence in our schools. “This recognition validates years of effort by our trainers and practitioners,” he said. Njoroge emphasised the importance of trained instructors to maintain the quality and integrity of the discipline. 

Challenges remain 

While the initiative has been widely praised, questions remain about its implementation. Critics have asked if schools will have the resources to train and equip students effectively. Rural schools with limited funding are of particular concern. 

Murkomen has assured these issues are being addressed as the government seeks to overcome logistical challenges. “This is a long-term investment in our youth. We are collaborating with local and international partners to ensure no school is left behind,” said Murkomen. 

Parents of students like Beatrice Mwikali, Amina’s mother, are optimistic but cautious. “I’ve seen what kungfu has done for my daughter – it’s given her confidence and strength. I hope the schools can replicate this experience for all children, regardless of their background,” she said. 

The popularity of kungfu was evident at the third edition of Kenya Kungfu Wushu Tournament held in the central Kenyan town of Kiambu in April 2024, which attracted contestants aged between 4 and 20 years from eight clubs across the country. At the tournament, over 50 contestants were awarded medals for showcasing their prowess in kungfu, which was sponsored by the Chinese embassy in Kenya. 

Kungfu falls under the collective martial arts umbrella known as wushu in China. Wushu has been included as a medal sport in the Dakar 2026 Summer Youth Olympic Games, which is often regarded as a key indicator for the introduction of new sports into the Olympics.  

“Kungfu is a journey of discipline and relaxation, teaching you to find balance between effort and ease. It is not about provocation or aggression, but about mastering yourself – physically, mentally, and emotionally,” said Kennedy Murimi, who teaches kungfu in different schools in Kawangware, a Nairobi slum, and is elated that kungfu will find its way into school curriculums. 

“The art instils focus, humility, and respect, enabling you to respond to challenges with calm strength, rather than impulsive action,” said Murimi.

African Times has published this article in partnership with ChinAfrica Magazine.