Kung Fu in DRC: Chinese martial arts start to gain traction

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It may seem surprising, but Kung Fu is widely practiced across the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Chinese martial art is gaining traction, although more needs to be done for it to grow.

In this Chinese sport, attack and self-defense are at its core. However, Kung-Fu has an artistic side. In addition, Wushu practice demands the indulgence of the body and mind.

YANNICK OBA WUSHU KUNG FU INSTRUCTOR "Our club is named "P mb la mondo", which means "to have an open mind", our main objective is to ensure the tranquility and serenity of the athletes' soul through kung fu."

Kung Fu in Congo was established as a national federation only 4 years ago. The leaders of this discipline had to set up a system to attract teachers from other disciplines.

STEVE DJIBRIL KOUMA, PRESIDENT CONGOLESE WUSHU KUNG FU FEDERATION "We had to wait until 2014 to establish a system to attract all masters, regardless of their style, and then work with the Ministry of Sport. We used to belong to the Congolese Karate Federation. Thankfully, we were able to become a federation and now we even organize competitions."

Today, more than 800 people are licensed to practice kung fu across this vast Great Lakes Region nation. This sport is also practiced by the national police force, as a way of enhancing the officers' skills.