Maluki Reaffirms Commitment to Elevate Judo Across Africa

The Kenya Judo Federation President Shadrack Maluki, has pledged to elevate the sport of judo globally by working in close partnership with the International Judo Union (IJU) to bring major international championships to the African continent.

Maluki, who first assumed leadership of the African Judo Union (AJU) in 2021, was re-elected as chairman earlier this week during the Union’s General Assembly held in Casablanca, Morocco. The new leadership team will serve a four-year term.

“My role is to collaborate closely with the AJU president and the executive committee to fulfill the tasks assigned, with the ultimate goal of advancing the objectives of the Pan-African Judo Union,” Maluki said.

In addition to his role in judo, Maluki serves as the vice president of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK). His re-election was unopposed after other candidates withdrew their bids ahead of the vote.

“This is a proud moment for our continent. We are united by our passion for judo, and together, we will work to take the sport to new heights. Our dream is to see African athletes consistently achieving podium finishes at the Olympics," ” Maluki remarked.

The assembly also saw the re-election of Madagascar’s Siteny Randrianasolo-Niaiko as AJU president by acclamation of all 32 member nations. Botswana’s Estony Pridgeon and Morocco’s Chafik El Kettani were also retained as general secretary and treasurer, respectively.

Reflecting on the unity within the judo community, Randrianasolo-Niaiko said:

“It’s not just about organizing competitions. It’s about fostering a family, supporting one another, growing together, and making our shared dreams a reality.”