Faith Nyasuguta
Ethiopia’s relationship with Russia goes beyond bilateral trade, extending into cultural exchange, as evidenced by the launch of Ethiopia’s first Sambo center. The opening of this center is part of Russia’s strategic efforts to strengthen its bond with the East African nation through sports and science collaboration.
Sambo, a contemporary fighting sport and self-defense practice, was developed in the Soviet Union during the 1920s. The name “Sambo” is derived from the Russian acronym “SAMozashchita Bez Oruzhiya,” meaning “self-defense without weapons.” It combines elements of judo, wrestling, and traditional martial arts into two primary styles: sport Sambo and combat Sambo. Sport Sambo resembles judo with throws, pins, and submissions, while combat Sambo incorporates additional striking techniques.
The Karpinsky Russian Geological Research Institute played a pivotal role in establishing the new Sambo center in Ethiopia. This initiative, reported by the Russian newspaper Sputnik, is part of the “Sambo in Granite” worldwide program, aimed at promoting the combat sport of Sambo to people of all ages.
Renowned Russian instructor Mikhail Rakhlin, president of the judo club Turbostroitel and President of the Judo Federation of St Petersburg, expressed his enthusiasm about the project. “It was so important for me to be here. Science and sport, geology, and Sambo, are areas that are well-developed in our country. We are ready to share our experience with you because we are successful in this, and we want you to become more successful,” Rakhlin told the Ethiopian media.
He further emphasized that the center would foster trust and respect between Ethiopia and Russia. Initial classes will target adults and students, with the long-term goal of introducing Sambo to Ethiopian youths.
The project’s significance extends beyond sports, as it symbolizes a growing partnership between Ethiopia and Russia. Pavel Khimchenko, Director-General of the Karpinsky Institute, revealed plans to integrate Ethiopian athletes into international competitions. “We have made plans with Ethiopian athletes and Russian specialists. In the short term, our primary goal is for Ethiopians to participate in the African Championship. In the long term, we certainly hope to see African athletes competing in the World Sambo Championship,” Khimchenko stated.
The history of Sambo in Africa dates back to 1987 when Dalil Skalli, currently the President of the African Sambo Confederation (CAS), established Morocco’s national committee on Sambo. One of the early World Cups was held in Casablanca, Morocco, where the Moroccan national team finished third, winning two gold medals and one bronze. By 2003, the committee had evolved into the Sambo Federation of Morocco, signifying the sport’s growing popularity and organizational structure.
Ethiopia’s new Sambo center represents an important step in the sport’s expansion across Africa. The initiative is expected to enhance Ethiopia’s presence in the international Sambo community and foster greater cultural and scientific cooperation with Russia. The establishment of the center reflects Ethiopia’s commitment to diversifying its international partnerships and promoting physical education and sports among its citizens.
As Ethiopia and Russia continue to develop their bilateral relations, the Sambo center stands as a testament to their shared vision of mutual growth and cultural exchange. This center is not only a place for learning and practicing Sambo but also a symbol of the strengthening ties between the two nations.
It offers Ethiopian athletes the opportunity to engage in a globally recognized sport, potentially paving the way for future champions to emerge from the country. In the broader sense, the Sambo center exemplifies how sports can serve as a bridge, fostering deeper connections and understanding between nations.
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