In the face of economic struggles and limited opportunities, an increasing number of young Kenyans are finding hope and purpose in the ancient Chinese martial art of kung fu. For many, it has become more than just a sport—it’s a pathway to self-discipline, financial prospects, and a chance to transform their lives.
Among them is 31-year-old Evans Munzaa, who once envisioned a stable career in IT and a family life by the age of 30. Instead, he faced years of unemployment and financial hardship. “I was forced to survive on odd jobs like farming, comedy, and menial labor,” he shared, reflecting on the sacrifices his widowed mother made to fund his education. Now, Munzaa is dedicating his time to kung fu training, hoping to turn it into a full-time career.
Munzaa’s story mirrors that of many young Kenyans grappling with high unemployment rates, particularly among those under 35, where the figure stands at a staggering 67%. This broader crisis has driven interest in kung fu, which is gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional martial arts like taekwondo.
Coach Kennedy Murimi, based in Nairobi’s Kawangware neighborhood, has witnessed this surge firsthand. His training sessions have tripled in attendance, now hosting about 60 learners. “Most of them are here because they’ve lost jobs and are exploring kung fu as a potential source of income through coaching or tournaments,” Murimi said.
The increased visibility of Chinese workers on major infrastructure projects in Kenya has also fueled interest in their culture, including martial arts. Meanwhile, local kung fu clubs offer free sessions to young people, providing them with both a productive outlet and a potential career path.
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Ngaruiya Njonge, president of the Kenya Kung Fu Wushu Federation, has spent 30 years promoting the discipline. He trains students in Kiambu County, where rising crime and alcoholism among youth have become pressing concerns. Njonge believes kung fu not only teaches self-defense but also imparts mental and social resilience.
His efforts have touched thousands. Over the past five years, around 4,000 students in 24 public primary schools in Kiambu County have benefited from his free training programs. One of his students, Elvis Munyasia, credits kung fu with saving him from addiction and a potential life of crime. “Without kung fu, I’d likely be an alcoholic or involved in drugs. It’s given me purpose,” he said.
For others, like student Aisha Faith, kung fu has sharpened academic abilities. “I used to struggle in school, but the discipline and focus I’ve gained from kung fu have significantly improved my performance,” she shared.
For Munzaa, the journey into kung fu has been transformative. Once overwhelmed by financial constraints to the point of considering suicide, he now views the martial art as a tool for mental and emotional growth. “The more I train, the more my mind learns to persevere in life,” he said.
As kung fu continues to grow in Kenya, its impact on the lives of young people is undeniable. Beyond the physical benefits, it offers a lifeline for those seeking discipline, community, and hope in challenging times. For many, it’s more than a sport—it’s a symbol of resilience and a brighter future.