Gaborone will host one of southern Africa’s most anticipated karate competitions when the Gabs Open International Karate Tournament kicks off at the University of Botswana Indoor Sports Centre. The event, set for October 11–12, will bring together hundreds of athletes from across the region in a showcase of skill, discipline and fierce competition.
“Preparations are moving well and on schedule,” said Sensei Ofentse Bakwadi, one of the organisers and a leading figure in Botswana karate. “Our team is working tirelessly to ensure that both athletes and spectators experience a world-class event.”
Eight countries have confirmed participation so far, including Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Local clubs are also expected to field strong teams, creating a mix of emerging talent and seasoned competitors.
“The Gabs Open will give our athletes much-needed international exposure,” Bakwadi said. “They will compete against opponents who are stronger, faster and more experienced. That experience is invaluable in their development and will raise the overall standard of karate in Botswana.”
A tournament for all levels
The competition will follow World Karate Federation categories, covering kata and kumite across all age groups and belt divisions. Organisers say this inclusivity ensures that young karatekas gain valuable experience while senior athletes test themselves against the region’s best.
“We are excited to run divisions for everyone—from juniors making their competitive debut to veterans showcasing years of expertise,” Bakwadi said.
Preparations have included venue setup and bout scheduling across multiple mats. Organisers also worked with international delegations on travel and logistics to ensure visiting athletes can focus on performance.
“Organising an event of this scale is never without challenges,” Bakwadi said. “Coordinating travel, accommodation and competition schedules across multiple countries requires attention to detail, but our committee has done a phenomenal job to make sure everything runs smoothly.”
Regional impact
For Botswana, the Gabs Open is not only a competition but also a development platform. Local athletes will measure themselves against regional opponents and adapt to different fighting styles.
“Being able to spar and compete against athletes from across southern Africa gives our competitors perspective,” Bakwadi said. “It’s one thing to train at home, but facing different styles and strategies pushes them to adapt, grow and elevate their game.”
Spectators can also expect fast-paced, technical bouts that showcase karate at its highest level and inspire the next generation of martial artists.
Community support
The event relies heavily on support from the local karate community, including coaches, parents and volunteers.
“The commitment from our community has been extraordinary,” Bakwadi said. “Everyone is working together to create a seamless experience for athletes and spectators alike. It’s a reflection of the passion and pride that people have for karate in Botswana.”
For young competitors, the tournament offers more than medals. It is a chance to build confidence, learn from experienced athletes and forge lasting connections.
“Karate is about discipline, respect and growth,” Bakwadi said. “Events like this provide the stage where those values come to life. When a 12-year-old competes against a top-level athlete from another country, the lessons extend beyond the mats—they are lessons in focus, resilience and belief.”
With preparations complete and anticipation building, organisers say the Gabs Open is set to be a landmark event for Botswana karate.
“Everything is ready—the athletes are prepared, the mats are laid, and the schedules are set,” Bakwadi said. “Now it’s time to showcase what Botswana karate is capable of.”
