The Kenya Judo Federation President Shadrack Maluki has today led Kenya and the African continent in celebrating the World Judo Day, 2026 with a message of hope and resilience aimed at developing the sport.
Maluki, who is also the President of the National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOCK) as well as Chairman of the Africa Judo Union (AJU) joined the world in commemorating the dae day taking to his social media accounts to spread the love and wish Judo enthusiasts and stakeholders a happy World Judo Day.
Every year on 28th October, the International Judo Federation and the global Judo Family celebrate World Judo Day, honouring the birthday of Jigoro Kano Shihan, founder of Judo, as well as the educational and social values of our sport.
Maluki was first elected Chairman to lead the AJU in May 2021 and re-elected to continue driving the development of African judo. He works alongside AJU President Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko. He is also the KJF President in Kenya leading national judo efforts in Kenya, including hosting continental showcases like the African Judo Championships.
Maluki has been at the front line in developing Judo with his efforts culminating at Kenya judokas qualifying and taking part at the 2024 Olympic Games that were held in Paris France.
Kenya recently hosted the 47th African Judo Senior Championships, Nairobi 2026, with the spotlight not only on the athletes competing on the tatami but also on a nation embracing its role at the heart of African judo. For Maluki, hosting this prestigious event is both a moment of pride and a powerful opportunity.
“Welcoming the continent’s best judoka to Nairobi is no small task. Organising a championship of this scale requires co-ordination, commitment and resilience at every level. Yet the challenge is matched by the significance of the occasion. For Kenya, being given the opportunity to host an African championship like this is both a great honour and a great responsibility. What is certain is that it offers us an incredible chance to shape the future development of judo in our country and across the region.” Maluki said.
Beyond the medals and rankings, the impact of such an event is deeply rooted in inspiration. Over three days of competition, young Kenyan athletes are exposed to the highest level of performance, many for the very first time. To witness elite competition up close, to feel its intensity and to understand its demands, is an experience that cannot be replicated.
The 2026 theme is BELONGING. In his message, Marius L. Vizer, the President of the International Judo Federation noted that a first bow marks the beginning of any journey in Judo but it is the welcoming and safe environment, the respect shown and the encouragement received that nurture a true sense of belonging. It means more than having a place on the tatami; it is knowing that this place is also yours.
“Judo can offer much more than physical activity or sporting achievement. It provides opportunities for learning, personal growth and human connection, where friendships are formed, confidence is strengthened and mutual support becomes a source of collective progress. The values of our moral code — politeness, courage, sincerity, honour, modesty, respect, self-control and friendship — guide us in creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed, encouraged and valued.”
This message concerns every member of our Judo Family. The dojo is also a place where generations meet, bringing together children, teenagers, young adults, seniors, veterans and retired judoka, from grassroots enthusiasts taking their first steps on the tatami to experienced practitioners, elite athletes and former champions, each with their own unique journey in Judo. It welcomes girls and boys, women and men alike, embracing individuals of diverse abilities and needs, including those participating in adapted forms of Judo, as well as refugees, displaced persons facing social, economic, cultural or geographical barriers to sport. Above all, it reminds us that our shared passion for Judo unites people from all walks of life and that the diversity of our backgrounds and experiences enriches our community,” Vizer said.
Belonging can mean finding support when life becomes difficult. Through the loss of a loved one, a separation, personal challenges or moments of uncertainty, the dojo can offer a sense of connection, routine and purpose. Sometimes, simply showing up, training alongside others and knowing that you are part of a group that welcomes and supports you can make a real difference. Beyond the techniques learned and the challenges overcome, Judo reminds us that no-one has to face their difficulties alone, and that there is strength in standing together, on and off the tatami.
Across the world, members of the Judo Family are already putting these values into practice by welcoming new participants, creating opportunities for adapted judo, supporting children and young people, and enabling people from all kinds of backgrounds to train and succeed together. Our international events also reflect this commitment, demonstrating what can be achieved when all judoka are given the opportunity to participate, be recognised and celebrated.