African martial arts have ancient roots and are generally inherently linked to local rituals and customs. Historically it is the tribal warriors or other feared and respected groups who were most influenced by the development of the fighting systems. Culturally it was the man who traditionally occupied these positions and therefore it is men who predominate in many of the local martial arts.
Like in Capoeira, music and dance play a major role in the practice and display of various indigenous martial arts.
The vast geographic size of the African continent and the diverse nature of the countries and cultures within have resulted in a multitude of differing martial styles.
This page highlights just two of the disciplines.
DAMBE
Primarily practised in West Africa Dambe is a Nigerian two person combat similar to boxing however fighters face up to each other adopt karate style stances and probe their opponent before striking.
History suggests that sometimes the contest was a fight to the death however the modern Dambe combat objectives is to knock down the opponent within 3 rounds. Each round has no time limit and only ends when the fighters either don’t move or come out of stance.
The contests are held outside to the rhythm of a drum and often in front of a large supportive crowd. The mud ring is defined by sand bags or similar and each fighter has one hand tightly wrapped in strong rope like material. This hand becomes the main weapon of offence while the other hand acts to block or deflect the blows of the other man.
Before the fight both men evoke good luck by using charms and chants before slugging it out until one or the other falls to the ground.
TAHTIB
Tahtib originates from Egypt and the Middle East and can be practised as a serious martial art or as a social dance. The martial art is developed for fighting on foot or between those on horse back.
The combatants are equipped with 4 foot long sticks (12 feet if on horseback) and the strikes are administered in a circular fashion in overhead exchanges. The high on energy attacks come thick and fast and are accompanied by counter strikes and feints from fighters trying to gain the upper hand.
KUTA / HIKUTA
This ancient African martial art art was originally believed to be the self defence system used by bodyguards to protect the pharaohs. Kuta and its contemporary Hikuta (higher level kuta) rely on fast, dynamic strikes. The attacks are delivered using fists or kicks and also incorporate the use of improvised weapons.
Like my own style of karate, kuta recognises the need for the exponent to generate maximum power through relaxed, natural physical movement and techniques.
