THIS IS

OIKADO BEGINNINGS OF MARTIAL ARTS

BOTSWANA

[I]N OUR WAY IT IS SAID, CHERISH THE WAYS OF THE PAST FOR

THOSE OF TOMORROW TO BECOME, FOR WE ARE BUT A SHADOW TO

WHAT WAS THERE IN THE BEGINNINGS.

OIKADO

MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL, BOTSWANA

DEDICATION

THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED TO ALL THE MEN AND WOMEN THAT

WE HAVE KNOWN, AND THOSE THAT WE HAVE NOT MET IN THE

MARTIAL ARTS, THE WORLD ENTIRE.

COPYRIGHT

First published in Botswana by the Oikado Martial Arts School

(Botswana) 2011, in collaboration with Light House Publishers: This is

OIKADO….. Beginnings of Martial Arts, Botswana. Expanded Edition.

Copyright © Dr Patrick ‘Solomzi Makgabenyana (2011).

Dr Patrick ‘Solomzi Makgabenyana assert the moral right and legal

right to be identified as the author of this work in accordance with the

Copyright, Designs and Patents ACT CAP 68:01 Laws of Botswana and

Copyright and Neighbouring Rights CAP. 68:02 Laws of Botswana.

CONDITIONS OF SALE

This book shall not be sold, hired, and or resold without the cover

which it was originally published in whatsoever manner, mechanically,

electronically, photocopying, recording and or otherwise without the

prior consent of the publishers and or the copyright holder.

ISBN -978-99912-939-7-4

Printed and bound in the Republic of Botswana by Drawtech (Pty) Ltd

t/a Master Print.

Concept Cover Design by: Dr Patrick ‘Solomzi Makgabenyana (2011).

Graphic Design and Production. Kabelo Thabeng: Thab Supplies (Pty)

Ltd. Editors: Mr. Gabaadzo Moseki and Mr. Benjamin Amandla

Mofokeng.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,

stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any

means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise,

without the prior permission of the publishers and copy right holder.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The author acknowledges the contributions and services made by the

individuals below mentioned, who dedicated their precious time and

effort in making this volume a success;

Ms Vivian Kedirile Sewacho Mothei.

Ms Sizakele Montoedi.

Ms Neo Sepotlo.

Ms Portia Kenosi.

Ms Edith G. Mokopi.

Ms Caroline B. Mokotedi.

Ms Kgomotso K. Mmolai.

Ma Angela N. Chidoda.

Ms Dipono M. Dihoro.

Ms Suzan R. Albertons.

I further extend my gratitude to;

Kyoshi Moses R. Kgosibodiba.

Kyoshi Samuel A. Ramaeba.

Kyoshi Michael L. Motlhabi.

Kyoshi Dr. Lekoko Kenosi.

Kyoshi Gabaadzo Moseki.

for the grand support given throughout all the phases of this work. I

further thank deeply Goitseone M. Podile-Kgalaeng and Dominic

Makgabenyana for the generous support they gave me and my family

throughout. Above all else, I further thank all my martial arts teachers

and students and all the sources that had been consulted when doing

this work. One continues to be indebted to all of them.

DR PATRICK ‘SOLOMZI MAKGABENYANA

MOLAPOWABOJANG

BOTSWANA

FIRST FOREWORD

Botswana is blessed with many sporting codes, however sport in

Botswana is going through growing pains. Front-page stories of any

weekly news paper depict a pattern of despair and hopelessness. Sport

is beset by incessant and continuing infighting. Sports articles and

news reflect a lack of confidence in those elected to run sport in the

country. The answer probably lies in the fact that sport is a true

reflection of society as a whole. It is time that our society began a

process of building its own heroes, home grown heroes who will become

role models for the children of Botswana. This book is a first step

towards achieving this goal.

The history of sport in Botswana is yet to be written as very little is

known about the efforts of many of the pioneers of our sports. Very few

people remember the exploits of athletes who were once household

names in their particular sport. This book is a tribute to the men and

women who made Martial Arts what it is today. It was through their

perseverance and dedication that Martial Arts became a sport with

international recognition in Botswana today as was proved by the

medals this country won at the 1999 All Africa Games held in

Johannesburg, South Africa.

This book provides a deep and comprehensive historical background to

the development of Martial Arts internationally and in Botswana and

how the neighbouring countries influenced its growth. It will also assist

all those who wish to study and understand the role of Martial Arts in

the total development of sport in Botswana. It will help practitioners in

this sport to window and understand many of the issues surrounding

their sport. The book outlines the role of women and the schools in the

development of sport in Botswana. This further attests the importance

of this book to those charged with the design and implementation of

sport and physical education in our schools.

This book clearly shows that for sport to improve it must start in the

classrooms and sport fields of this country. I am sure it will make a

valuable addition and contribution to improving the status of sport

especially the Martial Arts in Botswana.

Dr Martin M. Mokgwathi, PhD.

Director- Culture, Sports and Recreation,

University of Botswana.

(As he then was)

GABORONE, BOTSWANA 2001.

SECOND FOREWORD

Great ideas are most vulnerable at their birth for they can be misunderstood and shot down before they grow. The work of Grandmaster Dr Patrick ‘Solomzi Makgabenyana is ground breaking and

is the decisive watershed in the martial arts history nationally and regionally.

This very work should be understood and embraced as a significant tributary of information that is feeding the great river of knowledge

that flows across the entire SADC region. The life of this river of knowledge largely and greatly depends on its tributaries. Therefore, it is common cause that the SADC countries have a common destiny in

all spheres of existence. Conversely, they have common values, aspirations and visions. All these can only be acquired and crystallized

by pooling information from all the SADC countries into a single reference in every discipline. The case in point is this present work which explores the large dimensions of martial arts with conciseness

and intellectual wealth. Definitely, the work of Grandmaster Dr Makgabenyana provides a

priceless building block and window towards the creation of reposition of common values, aspirations and vision in the entire region.

Undoubtedly, it becomes a book and proud window that which alters fundamentally, our perception, perspectives and appreciation of martial arts. Practitioners across the SADC region are invited to come

to party and produce similar work. The works that would ultimately, serve as chapters to the great foundation and generations yet to come.

Botswana has been very fortunate to have one of its sons, a humble visionary and master who have seen the need and significance to plant

the seed of telling the martial arts story of Botswana and beyond. This being done candidly without upending the historical realities and beyond the point of bias. Thereby telling the very history with vantage

point that which is compelling, insightful, empowering and defining in its entirety. Consequently, providing a platform for other role players

to take up the challenge and add their voices too. At this very juncture my simple mind becomes flooded with the resonant voice of one of Africa’s greatest father and leader as thus;

[A]frica will write its own history, and it will be, to the North and to the South of Sahara, a history of glory and dignity”. PATRICE EMERY LUMUMBA, PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF CONGO, 1960.

It is given that for far too long the history of Botswana and many

African countries has been written by outsiders. But this work constitutes a dramatic detour from such trends, more so that it

detracts not from the calling of Patrice Emery Lumumba and of the feeling of renaissance amongst the African people.

The feeling and aptitude that the African must take charge of their own

destiny. In sufficient context, this book is but one such endeavour and direction to the accomplishment of potential of that very goal and ideal. Furthermore, and on the finer note, this work has the

tremendous potential of becoming a vital component in our education system. More so that it is empowering and enlightening beyond its original intended purpose.

Ordinarily, one would be questioning and searching to understand what

actually motivated and drove the intention and the desire to write this very work. Furthermore, what defined the very intention and desire to do so. Instead, these are not simple issues to be answered with a point

of naivety and intellectual arrogance as would normally be the tendency and latitude.

The actual answers to these issues are actually contained in the very text, but be what it may be, one must certainly take note of the fact

that this very book is certainly long overdue. Furthermore, it is both contemporary and historical in significance as a resource material and testament.

It is of contemporary significance because part of the history is still

unfolding and many of the characters portrayed within the book are still alive and will read about their role in martial arts in their lifetime. It is of further historical significance in that, it goes deeper into time

and extracting to the surface with considered points of veneration the great contributions of the past by many nations and masters many generations ago. Therefore, bringing into the forefront all that which

has been unknown to us or have been taken for granted by many of us. In the light of brilliance of this work, the past has been brought to us

with the substance of worth and remembrance today. I need to say something about the utility value of this book, which is

beyond what I have already said. In as much as the book acknowledges the role played by the schools in Botswana and other countries, it pays

a special tribute to all the martial artists in the world entire expressedly and or implicitly. This then is a clear manifestation of the dimension and aspect of mastership and oneness of our humankind.

It is further loaded with a unique dimension of tremendous significance in Botswana’s quest to create gender parity. In that the author has in a

large measure acknowledged the crucial role played by women of Botswana and elsewhere in martial arts, this is in keeping with

Botswana’s quest to create gender parity.

The crucial role played by women in the development and growth of

martial arts in Botswana and elsewhere in the world is very profound and cannot be sidelined and or minimized. This tribute and

dispensation is very humbling, refreshing and inspiring in our values as a nation and the world.

All in all, this book is priceless and absolutely empowering with rich

knowledge about martial arts, thus for want of better diction it is phenomenal and visionary. I emphatically say so, whether one argues its significance, substance of its motivation or debates its merit or not.

The crystal point and fact is that, it shall remain a compelling window of martial arts in our jurisdiction which has for many years being lacking a resource material such as this one thus making it a historical

journal that goes beyond the tomorrow. Furthermore, this very work will go all the way to become a splendid dimension of healing the divide

by breaking down the syndrome and barriers of misperceptions in our national martial arts. Consequently, new frontiers of understanding, appreciation and correction of the deficit view about martial arts has

become thus opening new faculties of corporation which would be outlasting for generations yet to come.

It will continue to inspire, motivate and guide all those who in their sincerity have the desire and intent to know and preserve this history

on martial arts, so that they may go far beyond their ordinary measures of visceral perceptions, expectations and achievements. Should they so choose.

The content of this work has very much persuaded me and I cannot

resist to say once more that, this book is a must read for all the students, teachers and parents in Botswana and elsewhere in the world. It is definitely resourceful and empowering. On a much finer note, I

also believe that once this had been done, our whole perception and perspective about the importance of sports in particular, the martial arts would certainly be changed. The process of such change will be on

the higher levels of awareness, understanding and appreciation of the vital role and significance of sports in our lives, societies and the great

role played by our indigenous heroes who went more often than not, unacknowledged.

It is further my humble assertion that when we are in an elevated point of view, the profound defining moment would arrive when we in

absolute sincerity honour all without bias in this discipline, and no one would be better pleased than I. Given the latitude, depth and significance of this work, I definitely say that it is a wonderful

monument, empowering journal and inspiring milestone in martial arts. It is an unparalleled accomplishment and signature in our national martial arts and sporting codes.

All that I can afford to say at this particular moment is simply this,

this work is a paragon, priceless and a profound signature in our national martial arts history and it’s the adroit evidence of true masterhood of the author. One thing is however certain, whether or not

you agree with the motivation, intention, desire and objective of this work. Whether you argue the significance of this very work or debate

its merit. This book is but for want of better diction, its august, and shall ultimately impact on the many dimensions of our thinking and

action in our sports. It will continue to influence many individuals and to reverberate around the world in its own ways, opening the new

frontiers unimagined before. It is no doubt therefore that, our country needed visionaries such as

these, to inspire other sportsmen and women, and generations yet to come. That they may go beyond the ordinary measures of visceral, expectations and achievements. And above all, to be proud of their

accomplishments as put in testament through this book. This is a powerful, persuasive and inspiring read for everyone now and in the

successful tomorrow.

LOT MOROKA REGIONAL MAGISTRATE (SOUTHERN)

(LLB UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA) (LLM UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN)

( As he then was)

BOTSWANA, SOUTHERN AFRICA. (2010)

PREFACE

Botswana shares with other nations in the region and beyond, the

martial arts culture which was inherited from the FAR EAST (Asia).

However, in the position of Botswana the uniqueness of this

inheritance is that it came about due to the country’s long association

with South Africa. South Africa has over the years contributed

extensively in the founding, development and growth of martial arts in

Botswana. Consequently and overtime, martial arts in our country has

undergone major changes in the past forty two years, more particularly

on the international dimension the causa for such a dramatic and

impactful change was the rapid socio-economic and stable democracy

of the country. Therefore in this background, it is evident and

undeniable that Botswana’s martial art is by far and large influenced by

the regional and international dynamics. For these reasons therefore,

the author was ignited and motivated to compile and produce this work

being a synopsis of issues and events that can help the students and

the readers to appreciate the context and content of our martial arts

history in Botswana.

Unfortunately, up until recently our national history on martial arts

has not been easily accessible to the students of martial arts.

Essentially it has been oral, scattered and adhoc and susceptible to

distortions and undue editing for the convenience of those who are

unscrupulous in our domain. It may therefore be as it is, the author

realized that the chronic deficit of documented history in our country

has the potential to lead to unnecessary upending and misperception of

facts and reality, confrontationality, and misapprehensions that which

were baseless at the end of the day. Furthermore, that the martial

students (s) and instructors very much lacked adequate exposure to the

international dimensions of martial arts. Thus causing the fact of

skewed interrelationship, interactions and connectivity that which

ultimately compromised their balanced growth in all the spheres of

martial arts. Another impetus was sourced from the realization that

some of our indigenous martial art instructors had for a long time been

making unwanted and irresponsible claims, which in fact distorted the

actual historical context and reality of Botswana’s martial arts. These

claims and assertions had overtime become so grave as to discount the

immense contributions of many individuals in the fraternity of martial

arts.

It was from these insensitive responses and sentiments that the author

became crucially aware that our future martial art generations, will

ultimately inherit a hollow legacy of martial arts. A legacy that which is

premised on the punctuated and distorted reality of facts and truth.

Therefore, that then becoming an unfortunate moment and a shameful

episode in our history and nation. Last but not least, the author further

noted that our national martial arts history will some day in the future,

be recorded by outsiders who were actually not there when all things

began. That alone would have been the presentations of facts void of

the substance of experience and empathy.

As it stands today, someone may unknowingly assume that our martial

arts in Botswana has no past to be proud of. They would assume that it

all started in the void. It is on this position that apostolically one

becomes minded to reflect on the following which was aptly stated as

thus;

We were taught, sometimes in a very positive way, to despise ourselves

and our ways of life. We were made to believe that we had no past to

speak of, no history to boast of. The past so far we were concerned was

just a blank and nothing more. Only the present mattered and we had

very little control over it. It seems we were in for a definite period of

foreign tutelage, without any hope for ever again becoming our own

masters. The end result of all this was that our self-pride and our self-

confidence was badly undermined.

It should be our intention to try to retrieve what we can of our past.

We should write our own history books, to prove that we did have a

past, and that it was a past that was just as worth writing and learning

about as any other……ABRIDGED SOURCE: SIR SERETSE KHAMA, 1ST PRESIDENT OF

THE REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA- BOTSWANA DAILY NEWS, MAY 19, 1970.

Wherefore, the totality of the abovementioned factors ultimately

crystalized into an intellectual calling, force and momentum that led to

this very work. The fundamental objective being, the fact of removing

the legacy of misperceptions and misapprehensions among the martial

artists of sundry and those outside it. In these intimations and

intentions, it is hoped that this work shall be considered with

sufficient context to be a humble window and token of guidance for the

future and to the masters of tomorrow.

On a different angle, the author noted further that many instructors in

our jurisdictions, seldom paid any attention to the details of martial

arts history, to the extent of not teaching it altogether to their

students. The entirety of this history would be put in the strong room

closed, but with absolute focus on stylism.

The reasons for such an aptitude and or turpitude can be attributed to

various factors and facts such as the following;

Firstly, they are ignorant and or were never instructed adequately

and eloquently in the significance and dynamics of such a history.

Secondly, if they were so instructed, it then means that the issue of

phobia to produce students whose perceptions and intellectuality is

beyond the concept, circumstance and boundness of stylism become

the controlling, restraining factor or phobia.

Thirdly, it is far much convenient and cheaper to produce, control

and exploit students(s) who are ignorant of the fundamental sources

and origins of martial arts since they could be contained in the

myopic concept and context of stylism.

Fourthly, it may be attributed to the limited faculty of the

particular instructor in the detailed matters of martial arts history.

Therefore, one does confess that this approach and tendency has done

much harm than good. The harm was surfaced in the context that

many progenies came out myopic and deficit of the material facts

about the historical dynamics and evolution of martial arts.

Consequently, the landscape of conflictive, confrontations, mistrust

and outright ignorance emerged and prevailed throughout. It is the

author’s believe and postulation that, the entirety of martial art history

is very much profound and vital in the holistic development of the high

concept and connectivity in the martial art science. That without this

very knowledge, a critical void and shallowness will always be assumed

to exist in the intellectual granary and advancement of students in

martial arts and at a cost.

Certainly, such students will always be limited to the politics and the

parapherneliases of stylisms and traditions. Given the above and

without going into the pervarsity of details, merits and de-merits, our

strong view and latitude is this, the martial art history is very much

empowering, interesting and profounding the entire culture, essence

and value system of martial arts. Therefore, it should not be construed

and be accorded the simplistic second hand treatment and or

undertaking as a faculty.

On the higher note, the author entreats all the students of martial arts

and the reader(s), to appreciate that this present work is not designed,

substanced and postulated to be polarizing, polemic and or adversary

but rather to achieve the five intellectual, historical and artistic

paragons which are:

The celebration of our achievements as a nation, and the world entire

in the martial arts in the context of the now and tomorrow.

To achieve a broader and deeper appreciation, understanding,

preservation and relation with the dynamics of martial arts. Above all,

to obtain a position and purview of how same had impacted, defined,

shaped and guided our human, social, cultural and spiritual visions and

aspirations as the dynamic social estate.

To inspire, encourage and above all, to guide our selves, future

generations of martial artists and the world entire. The forum upon

which the connectivity of mankind can be rediscovered, enhanced and

bonded in oneness.

That we all empathize and accord the appropriate appreciation,

veracity and gratitude, to the experiences and contributions of all

martial artist, the world entire. For their making and bequeathing this

magnificent and beyond compare martial arts legacy to us all.

Finally, to emanate honour and validate the oneness of our martial art

and mind, spirit, vision and, discipline in the World.

However, even though the primordial intentions are as above, the

author does not stand oblivious to the fact that, in our jurisdiction

some would not take pleasure and delight in this exercise, for whatever

reasons. Equally so and without being apologetic and polemic, the

author avers that the tenure or and tenacity of this work is outrightly

to state facts as they are. This is important in order to expand our

knowledge, our minds and hearts, to address any of our shortcomings

and nothing more or less. This is done so that all can in their lifetime

reach a point of being accomplished.

Whether or not some intellectual ordeal, haemorrhage and downing of

status occurs those shall be collateral and were not originally intended.

The truth is this, it is no longer permitting and appealing any more, to

leave our students in ignorance, with intellectual deficits and

ambiguity. It is therefore our considered duty, view and position that

this work is very much appropriate in order to overcome such

syndromes.

However, on the direct and compelling note, the martial artists who

hold a strong and contrary view about the issues herein are augustly

indicted to produce similar works that may augment, contradict and

outlast this present one. Certainly this is the unyielding calling which

to that end they must answer.

It must be noted by the student(s) and the reader(s) alike that, this

present work does not make the ambitious claim of being the panacea.

That being the case, all are persuaded and urged that through their own

research they should supplement the deficiencies that are observed by

them.

Notwithstanding the above, the author sounds the fact that, this

present work could not have existed had it not been through the much

encouragement, contributions and assistance from the many

individuals who are detailed in the acknowledgement of this work. To

all these individuals, I am heavily indebted and my gratitude goes to

them all. My special gratitude and humility goes to my disciple who is

Kyoshi Kgosibodiba Moses Racana who helped me throughout the

whole enterprise. I further sound my gratitude to all my martial art

students, past, present and future, for having honored me to be their

teacher and guide in the martial arts. And I also extend my gratitude

and veracity to the teachers and grandmasters who taught and guided

me in the martial arts in the past forty three years. I must confess

that, without all of them I would not be what I am today.

The author hopes therefore that, through this humble enterprise the

future martial artists who are the masters of tomorrow, shall stand out

ignited, inspired and guided. They be so guided in the provinces of

hope, faith, worth, trust and connectitude in the stature of

unquestioned dignity in martial arts. This be so in our Way, domain (s)

and beyond thus creating an everlasting legacy for those yet to come,

the masters tomorrow.

Grandmaster Dr Makgabenyana Patrick ‘Solomzi, PhD. MA

8th Dan, Oikiru-Ryu Karate Jitsu Do.

Chartered Member and Instructor of the International Society of Martial Artists.

National College of Martial Arts, Int’l. Science of Strategy Institute, Oikado

Martial Arts School (Botswana).

(ISMA) (NCMA) (SSI) (OMSB).

Molapowabojang, Botswana.

(Southern Africa)

30th April 2011.

Molapowabojang.

INTRODUCTION

After thirty three years in the discipline of martial arts I finally realized that, sometimes the obligations of martial arts does exceed the fundamental scope of the basic dojo, techniques and the style. This became evidently true when Grandmaster Dr Makgabenyana obliged me with the solemn task of assisting him with the research and preparation of this book on martial arts history. This assignment was embraced with exceptional enthusiasm and gratitude because it was one of those rarest privileges that anyone can be accorded by his own master. With charged confidence, I undertook this very task which ultimately proved to be highly illuminating, inspiring, exhilarating and congruent when discoveries of great martial artists of our times and our past were made. The above background provided a depth of sensitive stimulation and profound awareness that created the propensity of realizing that, our local martial arts cannot be distanced, insulated, immune or even be developed outside the international context and parameters. It cannot be nurtured, fulfilled and understood without reference to the events and achievements of other martial artists elsewhere and all over the world. This was the ultimate poignance and a compelling watershed in my experience and learnership in that, I discovered that history and traditions are essentially the starting point even though not always the ending point. From this very crucial standpoint and perspective, we can decisively be able to measure and evaluate our achievements and future potentials, destinations and goals without the complexities of dilemma or doubt, uncertainty or ambiquity, contradictions and contestations. It has been conceded through various endeavours and assertions within the context of our martial arts and been proved again and again, that we are indeed part of the global martial arts community. Therefore, the compelling reason, desire and the need to know much more about what took place outside our domain and in the past stands out crucial and urgent. Thereby subsuming the vital aptitude of integrating all that has been discerned, acquired and discovered into our own defined goals, aspirations and direction within the fraternity of martial arts in Botswana. Another special consideration which is ingrained in this book is the fact of meeting the special intellectual need(s) of our local martial artists. These practitioners constantly experienced severe shortage of martial arts literature and international exposures. Therefore becoming deficient or wanting in their broader scope of knowledge of history of the martial arts which entails the origins of martial art systems that which they devotedly practice. The imperative therefore, was to address this gnawing deficit and to make provision in order to secure the ambit of being totally rounded up by exposing ourselves to the entire historical embroidery and dynamics of martial arts in the world. Thereby balancing same with our knowledge of techniques of martial arts styles and our own martial art culture and evolution as a country. The kind of wisdom found in this work will actually emancipate, motivate and make us transcend the limitations of our martial arts environment in the context of stylism. The other basic tenancy of this book is to portray the deeds, achievements, challenges and other factors that which impacted on our

martial arts predecessors and current ones within Botswana and in other countries in the world. Furthermore, to assess, observe and ascertain how these had remotely, directly or indirectly impacted our scope of development and perceptions of martial arts. This is crucial because to continue to gloss over and even to maintain a position of denial of such facts, dynamics and achievements of such men and women seems wholly not to be justified and not appealing anymore. This very knowledge will inevitably result in our dynamic resourcement, pragmatic approaches, redefinitions and innovations within the context and ambit of our training schools, styles, associations and federations or unions of martial arts. The pervasiveness of such perceptions will penultimately remove the immature and skewed beliefs, aptitudes and illusions about the superiority, purity and effectiveness of any single style(s) over others. Therefore, the very status quo being grounded in the aptitude of ignorance and distortion of true facts, and misperceptions. And above all, impugning on the core of self interests that eventuate into becoming the source of confrontations, conflictive dispensations and contestation rather than in the progressive harmonization and intellectual advancement of all in the martial arts fraternity. It is on the strength of the above postulation that everyone will essentially begin to realize that, the logic of advocating and nurturing martial arts brotherhood and sisterhood become more compelling and of greater substance than ever before as we are becoming but one village of martial arts. Therefore, the mention of martial arts champions, instructors, masters and grandmasters will be detailed in this text and commented upon wherever possible and necessary. Thus, all those who had not been directly and or specifically mentioned, need not feel and consider that their outstanding contributions, achievements and status had been discounted, on the contrary their work has implicitly been embraced and celebrated through this very book. I must point out further that, I had the wider advantage of teaching and holding many clinics and gradings of martial art in the Secondary School and Tertiary Institutions in Botswana. In these institutions what was quite apparent and observable was essentially the fact that, there was too much stylistic mindedness, ignorance, arrogance, myopicness and selfishment that which ultimately and immensely impacted compromised and retarded progressive exchange of knowledge and view points on martial science. These aptitudes ultimately impacted adversely on the qualitative development of many capable practitioners. In many instances it was sadly discovered that, the source of such skewed aptitudes, misperceptions and intellectual wanting was from the instructors themselves who were over focused with the physical techniques, their positions and the entire paradigm of stylism. However, and without ignoring the apparent inconsistencies and not being blamable and polemic, the whole point and objective of this book is to minimize and remove such inherent and distorted perceptions and perspectives about the ultimate goal of martial arts. The ultimate objective being to pursue same as a form of education, science and philosophy that which is empowering, emancipating, guiding and prompting the lifelong acquisition of informed personal virtue rather than banal sentimentalism and stylism. It is through the process of self development in and through martial arts, and comparative training and analysis of historical developments and backgrounds elsewhere in the world, that our local martial arts can

attain a comfortable position, dispensation and articulation of maturity and profound immensity that which can meet the anticipations of the international community of martial arts. The most revered Father of Karate, Grandmaster Gichin Fukanoshi once said: Do not hope that you can learn karate from the dojo alone-“(twenty principles of karate). This salutary advice and direction we reaffirm it today through this modest work. Once more, it is on the basis of the above that one is persuaded further to point out this, the most appropriate course of action and attitude is to take martial arts as a form of discipline, education and science in entirety. This approached should be compounded with the broader mind of thinking and comprehensivity so that it can beneficiate our character, humility, knowledge and enlightment thereby expanding and transcending one’s potentials. These then can ensure the fullest benefit to the development of our sporting code(s) in Botswana. In the same platitude, it is also hoped that this work having come at an opportune time, will serve as a litmus, catalyst and barometer for future reference and guidance to all the martial arts schools, secondary schools, tertiary institutions and universities, associations, and to individuals in our country, and elsewhere in world. Finally, it must be noted that images had been used in that the actual names of living people had be used and that these individuals can be outsourced and consulted as resource persons in the local and international context. Thereby the significance being this, their wisdom could be siphoned and used to improve the standard quality and exponentiality of our martial arts and in whatever capacity and context that is desired. In Botswana, some of the individuals who are named or mentioned are now in senior positions both in government, corporate world and other institutions. Some have retired and even advanced in age but nonetheless the simple fact that remains is this, they are hereby acknowledged and revered, and this homage extends to other countries in the world entire, through this humble book. Special gratitude is also permeated to the grandmasters and masters, instructors and champions all over the world, for the magnificent and luminary work that they have done for this and future generations of martial artists. Their great work and achievement(s) having/had ignited such great inspiration in us all. Conversely, they bequeathed to all such a profound and unequalled legacy of knowledge, wisdom and achievement to mankind. Wherefore, with the greatest respect and humility this modest work is presented to the respective practitioner of martial arts and to the reader at large so that all of us can benefit from it. Further to that everyone can then see, measure and reflect on our past endeavors and future aspirations and visions. On the whole, I do not fail to constantly ponder, how fortunate we have been, to have stood on the shoulders of such a doyen and worthy master. The doyen whose life and teachings defined and guided our lives in martial arts. In that context and score, be transformed in placid disposition and dispensations, and to acquire the magnificent and immense dimension of potential and worth in the great future of martial arts the world entire.

Kyoshi Kgosibodiba Racana Moses. 6th Dan, Oikiru Ryu Karate Jitsu Do.

Member of International Society of

Martial Artists, National College of Martial Arts Intl.

KwaZulu/Natal Martial Arts Academy,

Oikado Martial Arts School (Botswana),

(I.S.M.A.) (N.C.M.A.) (O.M.S.B.)

Tlokweng-Botswana.

SOUTHERN AFRICA.

30th April 2011,

Tlokweng, Botswana.

DEDICATION..............................................................................................iii COPYRIGHT................................................................................................iv ACKNOWLEDGMENT...................................................................................v FIRST FOREWORD.....................................................................................vi SECOND FOREWORD.................................................................................viii PREFACE....................................................................................................xii INTRODUCTION.........................................................................................xix

CONTENTS

DEDICATION..............................................................................................iii

COPYRIGHT................................................................................................iv

ACKNOWLEDGMENT...................................................................................v

FIRST FOREWORD.....................................................................................vi

SECOND FOREWORD.................................................................................viii

PREFACE....................................................................................................xii

INTRODUCTION.........................................................................................xix

CHAPTER ONE

(GENESIS OF MARTIAL ARTS IN BOTSWANA)

THE INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND:OVERVIEW .................................................................... 1

THE WORLD WAR TWO IMPACTS (1939 – 1945) ............................................................................ 5

THE WINDS OF INDEPENDENCE IN BOTSWANA (1966) .................................................................. 6

THE NEW DISPENSATION IN BOTSWANA ...................................................................................... 8

CHAPTER TWO

(THE EVOLUTION AND DIVERSITIES IN MARTIAL ARTS)

THE MARTIAL ARTS:PARADIGM AND DIALECTICS ...................................................................... 11

THE ENDURABILITY OF STYLES AND SYSTEMS ............................................................................. 13

THE IMPERATIVES OF INNOVATION AND CHANGE ...................................................................... 14

THE TRADITIONALISM AND SPECIATION IN MARTIAL ARTS .................................................... 14- 15

THE COMMON DENOMINATOR IN MARTIAL ARTS SYSTEMS................................................... 16- 17

THE UNIVERSAL CONCEPT OF HARMONIZATION ......................................................................... 17

THE EMBRACING PERCEPTION AND VISION: MARTIAL ARTS ................................................... 18- 19

CHAPTER THREE

(THE FOUNDATION OF MARTIAL ARTS IN BOTSWANA)

THE POLITICAL QUAGMIRE IN SOUTHERN AFRICA ................................................................. 20-23

THE FOUNDING FATHERS OF MARTIAL ARTS IN BOTSWANA .................................................. 23-24

THE MARTIAL ARTS PIONEERS IN BOTSWANA ........................................................................ 26-28

THE AWAKENING OF LOBATSE (MARTIAL ARTS) ..................................................................... 28-30

THE RISING OF MARTIAL ARTS IN BOTSWANA ............................................................................ 32

THE FOUNDING OF TSOSAMOTSE KARATE SCHOOL ..................................................................... 32

THE FOUNDING OF SAILONG KUNG-FU SCHOOL .......................................................................... 32

THE 1ST ALL STYLES KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS (BOTSWANA) 1978) .............................................. 33

THE CONSTRAINTS AND CHALLENGES IN MARTIAL ARTS (1970-1980) .......................................... 34

THE SHIHON KYOKUSHINKAI COLLEGE (DURBAN) AND LOBATSE (BOTSWANA) ............................ 35

CHAPTER FOUR

(ANTIQUITY OF MARTIAL ARTS)

THE BEGINNING OF MARTIAL ARTS, ANCIENT AFRICA: OVERVIEW……………………………………………...37

THE KINGDOM OF NUBIA…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….37

THE KINDOM OF KERMA…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….38

THE KINGDOM OF EGYPT ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………39

THE MARTIAL COMBAT IN EGYPT, AHA KEMET……………………………………………………………………………40

THE DECLINE OF THE EGYPTIAN EMPIRE…………………………………………………………………………………….42

THE INVASION AND FALL OF EGYPT……………………………………………………………………………………………43

THE AFRICAN HOLOCAUST OF ENSLAVEMENT……………………………………………………………………………..44

INDIA AND MARTIAL ARTS (3000 BC) BEYOND:OVERVIEW .......................................................... 45

THE INTEGRATION AND IMPACT OF ZEN BUDDHISM ................................................................... 48

CHAPTER FIVE

(THE MARTIAL ARTS BEGINNING IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS BOTSWANA)

THE INITIATIVES OF ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE ................................................................................. 51

THE APOSTOLIC PERIOD OF MARTIAL ARTS (BOTSWANA) ........................................................... 54

THE MOEDING COLLEGE AND SEEPAPITSO SECONDARY SCHOOL (1970 -89) ................................. 55

THE PROLIFERATION OF MARTIAL ARTS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS .............................................. 56

THE PRIMARY SCHOOLS AND MARTIAL ARTS ............................................................................. 58

THE SECONDARY SCHOOLS HOSTING THE KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS ........................................... 59

THE 1ST NATIONAL ALL STYLES KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS (1978) .................................................. 62

THE STATUS OF FUKAYAMA KUNG FU SCHOOL (1975-1987) ....................................................... 63

THE PUBLIC AWARENESS ABOUT MARTIAL ARTS (1973-1979) ..................................................... 67

THE WUSHU TEAM FROM CHINA (1976) ..................................................................................... 67

CHAPTER SIX

(CHINA AND MARTIAL ARTS)

THE BUDDHA DHARMA IN CHINA:OVERVIEW ............................................................................. 69

THE SHAOLIN TEMPLES AND OTHER COUNTRIES ......................................................................... 71

THE ANCIENT MARTIAL ART STATUS IN CHINA ............................................................................ 73

THE SHAOLIN MARTIAL ARTS AND OFF SHOOT SYSTEMS ............................................................. 75

THE CODIFICATION AND SCIENTIFICATION OF MARTIAL ARTS IN CHINA ...................................... 77

THE KINGDOMS OF KOREA ........................................................................................................ 78

THE BIRTH OF TAE KWON DO MARTIAL ARTS .............................................................................. 79

THE UNIVERSAL IMPACTS OF KOREAN MARTIAL ARTS ................................................................ 82

CHAPTER SEVEN

(THE INSTITUTIONALIZATION OF MARTIAL ARTS BOTSWANA)

THE BOTSWANA NATIONAL SPORTS COUNCIL (1982) .................................................................. 84

THE FORMATION OF BOTSWANA KARATE ASSOCIATION ............................................................. 84

THE ADVENT OF SHITO-RYU AND HAYASHI HA KARATE DO (BOTSWANA) .................................... 86

THE SELEBI PHIKWE KARATE CONVENTION (1989) ...................................................................... 87

THE 1ST NATIONAL KARATE ALL STYLES CHAMPIONSHIPS (1990) ................................................. 89

THE ASSOCIATION OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS (1992) ........................... 92

THE BOTSWANA SECONDARY SCHOOLS KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS (1992) .................................. 96

THE OUTCOME OF TOURNAMENT (1992) .................................................................................... 98

CHAPTER EIGHT

(THE FOUNDATION OF INTERNAL MARTIAL ARTS)

THE PAQUA CHANG AND TAICHI CHUAN:OVERVIEW ................................................................. 102

THE NATURE OF I-CHING .......................................................................................................... 104

CHAPTER NINE

(THE UNIVERSITIES AND MARTIAL ARTS)

THE ROLE OF UNIVERSITIES IN MARTIAL ARTS .......................................................................... 108

THE UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA KARATE SCHOOL (1980-2000) ................................................. 109

THE INTERVASITY GAMES ......................................................................................................... 110

THE SOUTH AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES KARATE TOURNAMENT (1990) ........................................... 110

THE GREAT BRITAIN AND JAPAN TOURNAMENT (1990) ............................................................. 110

THE UNIVERSITY OF SAN FRANCISCO (1991) ............................................................................. 111

THE S.A.D.C. AND MARTIAL ARTS ............................................................................................. 112

CHAPTER TEN

(THE RYUKYU ISLANDS)

THE DYNAMICS OF OKINAWA ISLANDS:OVERVIEW .................................................................. .114

THE KINGDOMS OF RYUKYU ISLANDS ....................................................................................... 115

THE PROVINCE OF KARA IN CHINA ........................................................................................... 116

THE AGE OF DISTINCTIONS (1507 AD) ....................................................................................... 117

THE EMERGENCE OF OKINAWATE ............................................................................................. 117

THE INVASION OF OKINAWA (1609 AD) ................................................................................... 118

THE EMERGENCE OF KOBUJUTSU-DO ....................................................................................... 118

THE CHINA AND OKINAWA INTERACTIONS ............................................................................... 119

THE PRE-LEAD TO MODERN MARTIAL ARTS .............................................................................. 121

THE FOUNDATIONS OF NINJU-TSU DO ...................................................................................... 123

THE TOGAKURE-RYU NINJU-TSU ORDER ................................................................................... 125

CHAPTER ELEVEN

(THE 10TH

ANNIVERSARY OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS KARATE)

THE CHAMPIONSHIPS, LOBATSE (BOTSWANA) (1999) ............................................................... 126

THE TOURNAMENT COMMISSIONERS ....................................................................................... 127

THE OUTCOME OF THE EVENT (1999) ........................................................................................ 129

THE CORPORATE ENTITIES AND SPONSORSHIPS ........................................................................ 132

THE MARTIAL ARTS AND DESCIPLINED FORCES IN BOTSWANA .................................................. 134

CHAPER TWELVE

(THE FOUNDATIONS OF MARTIAL ARTS, JAPAN)

THE ANCIENT MARTIAL ARTS POSITION IN JAPAN:OVERVIEW ................................................... 138

THE BIRTH OF JUI-JUTSU DO MARTIAL ARTS ............................................................................. 138

THE EMERGENCE OF OIKIRU RYU MARTIAL ARTS ...................................................................... 140

CHAPER THIRTEEN

(INTERNAL DYNAMICS IN MARTIAL ARTS BOTSWANA)

THE ACQUISITIONS OF PROSPECTIVE SYSTEMS OF MARTIAL ARTS ............................................. 143

THE EROSION OF INDIVERSITY IN MARTIAL ARTS ...................................................................... 144

THE DIVERSIFICATION OF MARTIAL ARTS IN BOTSWANA .......................................................... 145

THE WOMEN AND MARTIAL ARTS (BOTSWANA) ...................................................................... 146

THE SHIFTINGS OF STUDENTRY IN THE STYLES .......................................................................... 148

THE BOTSWANA KUNG FU WUSHU FEDERATION ...................................................................... 149

THE IMPACTS OF MARGINALIZATION AND INFIGHTS (MARTIAL ARTS) ....................................... 150

THE PROLIFERATION OF MARTIAL ART FEDERATIONS (BOTSWANA) .......................................... 152

THE FUTURE VISION AND PENDULATION .................................................................................. 154

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

(THE ISLANDS OF JAPAN 10,000 BC)

THE JOMON ERA:OVERVIEW .................................................................................................... 156

THE CLASSICAL PERIOD ............................................................................................................ 156

THE RISE OF THE SAMURAI AND SHUGUN ERA .......................................................................... 157

THE EDO (TOKUGAWA) PERIOD ................................................................................................ 158

THE SAMURAI PERIOD .............................................................................................................. 159

THE YEARS OF PEACE IN JAPAN ................................................................................................ 160

THE DECLINE OF THE SAMURAI ERA .......................................................................................... 161

THE PERIOD OF THE NIGHT CLANS ............................................................................................ 163

THE END OF THE SAMURAI CASTE ........................................................................................... 164

THE BEGINNING OF THE OPENING OF JAPAN ............................................................................ 165

THE DECLINE OF THE SHOGUNATE ............................................................................................ 166

THE ADVENT OF THE MEIJI ERA ................................................................................................ 166

THE OLD AND NEW WAYS COLLISION ....................................................................................... 167

THE RISE OF MODERN JAPAN ................................................................................................... 168

BIBLIOGRAPHY ......................................................................................................................... 171

BIOGRAPHY ............................................................................................................................. 181

CHAPTER ONE

THE GENESIS OF MARTIAL ART IN

BOTSWANA

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND: OVERVIEW

otswana is found in Southern Africa and its neighbouring countries are;

SOUTH AFRICA

NAMIBIA ANGOLA

ZIMBABWE Thereby causing same to be a landlocked country. She is the headquarters

of the;

B

SOUTHERN AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY

(SADC)

Over the last forty three years she had enjoyed the blessings of stability, politically, economically and socially with a vibrant democracy. On the economic definements she has performed very well over the years

considering the fact that on the attainment of independence she was the poorest country in the world;

[B]otswana is a poor country at present is unable to stand on its own feet and develop its resources without the assistance from its friends in

the outside world. There is no reason why we should be ashamed of this because first, the fault is not our own and secondly, very few countries in the world and especially in Africa would manage without the

assistance they receive from other nations ……” ABRIDGED SOURCE:

PARLIMENTARY ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT SIR SERETSE KHAMA ON THE 1ST NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SESSION 6TH OCTOBER 1966, REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA.

Over the years Botswana became one of the worlds leading producers of diamonds. Given this dispensation she then experience the process of rapid

economic growth and development. She eventually got upgraded to the status of being one of the middle income countries in the world. She was the founding partner in the Kimberly Process Certification of Diamond by virtue

of being the leading producer of diamonds. The Kimberly Process Certification was critical to Botswana because the world was standing up

against conflict diamonds that sponsored civil wars in the various countries particularly in Africa. It must be pointed out that the developments, peace and democratic system

in Botswana was acknowledged and applauded by many in the world, cases in point are:

THE WORLD BANK ON THE ECONOMIC FREEDOM OF THE WORLD.

THE FRASERS INSTITUTE OF MINING COMPANIES SURVEY (PPI). THE TRANSPARENCY INTERNATIONAL.

Botswana’s infrastructure developed with great significance and remarkability and became more in keeping with the standards of

modernization. She then became classified as one of the fastest growing young economies in the world. On the dimensions of natural heritage Botswana is blessed with the diversities of fauna and flora, natural sites of

beauty and wildlife in the context of;

THE MOREMI GAME RESERVE.

THE CHOBE NATIONAL PARK. THE OKAVANGO DELTA (WORLD HERITAGE).

THE CENTRAL KGALAGADI GAME RESERVE. THE TSODILO HILLS (WORLD HERITAGE). THE KGALAGADI TRANSFRONTIER PARK.

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is shared by the countries of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. On the mining dimension, Botswana is much

blessed with various minerals apart from the diamonds, and much exploration and exploitation of these resources is still ongoing. Socially and

culturally, the country is very rich in cultural diversity, harmony and dynamism and above all, the people are peaceful, polite and of nurtured welcome.

The significance and relevancy of the above background is on the fact that, Martial Arts developed and became sustained in the context of this

background because Martial Arts is a component of the social estate.

In flash back and synopsis, in the era of 1880 this very country was known as the;

BECHUANALAND

And was very much dependent on agriculture and cattle farming. Its male

population dependent much on the South African mines for income as they provided labour to the mining industry. The inhabitants of Bechuanaland were known as Bechuana, much of their government was from the Chiefs

according to their tribal territories. However, Bechuanaland got caught up in the political and military wrangles between the;

BOER REPUBLIC IN TRANSVAAL (SOUTH AFRICA). GERMANS IN SOUTH WEST AFRICA (NAMIBIA).

These two camps were persuing their policies of expansionism of territories. Conversely, Bechuanaland became the prime target to both sides which

wanted to annex it. The Bechuana’s when faced with this dilemma resolved that they should not accede to annexation but rather seek help from Great Britain. The British Missionary John Mackenzie spearhead the dialogue

between Great Britain and Bechuana Chiefs. The outcome of this dialogue was the passing of the;

ORDER-IN-COUNCIL (27th January 1885)

which factored that Great Britain extended her power and jurisdiction over

Bechuanaland. This order impacted adversely and thwarted the intensions of the Boer Republics in Transvaal and Germans in South West Africa. It

saved Bechuanaland from annexation. In Cape Town, the British High Commissioner;

SIR HERCULES ROBINSON made a special proclamation which declared HER MAJESTY’S

GOVERNMENT interests in the Bechuanaland territory. In 1889, Great Britain established a company which was called;

THE BRITISH SOUTH AFRICAN COMPANY.

and was given the Royal Charter on the 29th October 1889. Cecil John Rhodes became the prominent driver in this company. The objective of this

company was inter-alia to administer all the British Colonies and Territories which included the;

MATEBELELAND (SOUTH RHODESIA).

BAROTSELAND (NORTHERN RHODESIA).

In total effect the British Government had taken charge of Bechuanaland

(now Botswana) Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) and Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Rhodesia was named after Cecil John Rhodes.

One of the greatest ambitions of Cecil John Rhodes was to build a railway line that commenced from Cape Town and to reach Cairo, Egypt. The

impacts of this project necessitated that the Bechuana’s to part with their land for the construction of the railway line. In 1894, an Order-In-Council was passed which empowered the British South African Company to

administer all the British Colonies and Territories in Southern Africa.

In 1894 the Order-In-Council did not augur well with the Bechuana Chiefs. In fact it precipitated their desire and intensions to directly meet with;

HER MAJESTY GOVERNMENT IN GREAT BRITAIN.

The catalyst behind this design and dialogue became the missionary called;

W.C. WILLOUGHBY.

This missionary did all the ground work that resulted in the fact that the three;

CHIEF KHAMA III OF THE BANGWATO. CHIEF BATHOEN I OF THE BANGWAKETSE.

CHIEF SEBELE I OF THE BAKWENA.

go to Great Britain in 1895. The focus of their mission in Great Britain was to meet Her Majesty’s Government and secure the status of being a protectorate of Great Britain. They were welcomed by the Colonial Secretary

namely;

SIR JOSEPH CHAMBERLAIN.

in London. This journey was of great political and historical significance to

both London and Bechuanaland. On the 6th November 1895, the vital agreement was reached and concluded between the Chiefs and Her Majesty’s Government in that Bechuanaland was recognised and protected

by Great Britain. As a bond to the above transaction, the Chiefs were honoured with the fact and opportunity of meeting the actual monarch

namely;

HER MAJESTY QUEEN VICTORIA

at Windsor Castle. After the end of their business tour, the three Chief’s returned to Bechuanaland. In the same year, on the 16th November 1895,

the Cape Colony Government was ordered to take over the full administration of Bechuanaland as a recognised;

BRITISH PROTECTORATE.

However, and prior to that, on the 10th June 1895 the British Commissioner in Cape Town (South Africa) issued a proclamation that caused the application of English Laws in the Colony, to equally apply to Bechuanaland

Protectorate. During this epoch it must be impressed and appreciated that, the whole of Africa was undergoing the adverse momentum and pressures of

colonialism which culminated in the partition of Africa into colonies for the European countries in the Berlin Conference, Germany (1895). At this point one must pause but advise the student(s) to read;

HOW EUROPE UNDERDEVELOPED AFRICA.

Africa was now completely colonized and the colonies were under the control of the European Nations who had absolute authority over the,

POLITICAL, SOCIAL,

CULTURAL, ECONOMICAL

life and viability of the continent and this process and condition colonial domination and exploitation of resources prevailed for many decades.

THE WORLD WAR TWO IMPACTS (1939 – 1945).

After the Second World War (1939 – 1945) the nations of the World collectively made a declaration called The United Nations Charter and The

Universal Declaration of Human Rights (10th December 1948). Pursuant to this declaration many of the colonies began the vital process of demanding their right to self determination under the United Nations Declaration on the

Granting of Independence to the Colonial Countries and Peoples (14th December 1960). This very point was eloquently clarion by Dr. Kwame Nkuruma as thus;

[A]frica wants her freedom. Africa must be free. It is a simple call but is

also a signal, a red warning to those who will tend to ignore it….” Abridged

Source: Dr. Kwame Nkuruma’s address at the United Nations 1960.

However as early as by the 1950’s this demand was very intense and

pervasive globally. In the Sub-Sahara Africa, on the 6th March 1957 Ghana became the first country to attain its independence under the stewardship of

Dr. Kwame Nkuruma who was an impeccable voice of freedom for the African Continent. The precedent having been set, many African colonies agitated for their independence, and this momentum, pressure and

assertions was aptly ventilated and inter-alia captioned by the British Prime Minister Sir Harold McMillan (Famous Speech 1960) in Cape Town as

follows;

[T]HE WINDS OF CHANGE ARE BLOWING IN AFRICA….”

The Bechuanaland Protectorate was not whatsoever immune from these winds of political change in the African continent. It was such that by the

1960’s the agitation for self determination was beginning to take strong root, momentum and in the long run resulted in the creation of several political

parties that were geared towards spearheading and van guarding Bechuanaland Protectorate to its independence. These parties were;

THE FEDERAL PARTY (1959). THE PEOPLE’S PARTY (1961).

THE BECHUANALAND DEMOCRATIC PARTY (1962). THE BECHUANALAND NATIONAL FRONT (1965).

The progression towards independence was in the high stages and intensities in 1965. Consequently on the 1st March 1965, the first general election took place in Bechuanaland Protectorate, which was thus under the

guidance and administration of the Queen’s Commissioner in Gaborone who was,

SIR PETER FAWCUS,

and who thereafter was succeeded on account of retirement on the 16th July 1965, by Sir Hugh Norman Walker. The outcome of the election was

remarkably outstanding and was of greatest significance for the territory in

that the Bechuanaland Democratic Party won and became the next government. On the 3rd March 1965 its leader;

SIR SERETSE KHAMA

became the first Prime Minister and his Deputy was,

DR. KETUMILE Q.J. MASIRE. On the 19th February 1966 in Great Britain, a special conference took place

in London at the Marlborough House. Those who participated in this Marlborough House Conference were;

LORD LONGFORD, THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR

COLONIES.

MRS EIRENE WHITE, MP PARLIAMENTARY UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES.

PRIME MINISTER SIR SERETSE KHAMA. DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER DR. Q.K.J. MASIRE. CHIEF BATHOEN II, FOR THE HOUSE OF CHIEFS.

MR PHILLIP MATANTE, FOR THE OPPOSITIONS PARTIES. The final outcome from this conference was the agreement that on the 30th

September 1966, Bechuanaland Protectorate should attain her independence from Great Britain.

THE WINDS OF INDEPENDENCE IN BOTSWANA (1966).

On the independence eve, a cold dusty wind raced across the capital Gaborone and in the morning a down pour of rain occurred and in that space of time, a remarkable miracle took place in the annals of history in

that, a new modern state was being born and named the;

REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA. During this significant occasion, the international community welcomed and

acknowledged this miracle, and as for Great Britain, Her Majesty the Queen was represented by,

PRINCESS MARINA OF KENT.

However on the economic and development front, the newly born state was one of the poorest in the World, there was virtually no infrastructural development(s), no mining and industrial sectors, the fact of poverty and

unemployment was painfully rampant, and this deplorable condition was initially clarioned by Sir Seretse Khama in the Presidential Address to the;

THIRD ANNUAL MEETING OF THE BECHUANALAND

DEMOCRATIC PARTY (1964).

Sir Seretse Khama in his special address to his party he inter-alia stated thus;

[O]n the otherhand we must recognize that we are a part of the re-

awakening giant of Africa, whose countries have all, except very few, became independent States, and which are quite rightly, endevouring to make themselves heard on World Councils…

As Bechuanaland steadily moves towards the top of her constitutional ladder and attaining her freedom, there are two immediate problems

that we have observed besetting almost all emergent States in Africa, first of all the interpretation of freedom and independence, secondly,

the harassing economic problem… Our economic position is known to you all, Bechuanaland is a country

of few and undeveloped economic resources requiring a great deal of capital injection to make the country viable…”

Furthermore on the 6th October 1966, in the First National Assembly Session of the Republic of Botswana, Sir Seretse Khama in his address

inter-alia and aptly stated thus; [B]otswana is a poor country and at present is unable to stand on its

own feet and develop its resources without the assistance from its friends in the outside world. There is no reason why we should be

ashamed of this because first, the fault is not our own and secondly, very few countries in the world and especially in Africa, would manage without the assistance they receive from other nations…”

There abovementioned address clearly depicted and graphiced the prevalence of the condition of poverty and undevelopment in the new nation.

When the First National Assembly of Botswana was dissolved by Sir Seretse Khama in 1966, inter-alia he made a profound statement that was loaded

with political anguish, courage, calling and determination as thus; [W]e are in the humiliating but essentially challenging position, of not

knowing the basic facts on which to found our plans for the future… Sir Seretse Khama 1st National Assembly 6th OCTOBER 1966. ”

It must be noted and impressed that the development and progressive achievements of Botswana’s:

MINING SECTOR. INDUSTRIAL SECTOR.

HEALTH SECTOR. EDUCATION SECTOR.

SERVICE PROVIDING SECTOR. PUBLIC SERVICE SECTOR. TELECOMMUNICATION

SECTOR. AGRICULTURAL SECTOR.

TOURISM SECTOR INFRASTRUCTURAL SECTOR.

ECONOMIC VIABILLTY. FINANCIAL SECTOR.

SPORTS, ARTS AND CULTURE SECTOR.

TRADE AND TOURISM SECTOR

LEGAL SECTOR.

should be construed, analysed, understood and prismed against this

colonial, political and social background because these sectors and others, did not blossom from the vacuum or in the abstract but against this backdrop. They are an integral component of the dynamics of

history, colonialism, decolonization, political emancipation and the evolution to modern nationhood. Thence bringing about a true sense of

worth and pride to all the people who had in diversed ways and capacities made Botswana to achieve what otherwise would have been considered the impossible. All these people, who were intimately involved

in the past, present and future are through this humble work, honoured and acknowledged for having positively impacted the present day sporting codes, precisely the martial arts directly and/or vicariously.

THE NEW DISPENSATION IN BOTSWANA

After the acquisition of independence a new dispensation and impetus of economical, social, and developmental growth emerged. Thereby

precipitating the placid modernization of the country, and this momentum and commitment was under the prudent stewardship and the leadership of the;

BOTSWANA DEMOCRATIC PARTY

Thus the beginning of National transformation took place, and such developments became pervasively impacting and permeating the core of the culture of sports, arts and cultural activities and in this particular

focus and context, the Martial Arts. On the other hand, in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Angola and Mozambique the liberation wars were

ongoing and consequently caused many people to be displaced and some of them took refuge in Botswana, and this process and development caused Botswana to receive some Martial Artists who contributed

significantly in the Martial Arts enterprise of the country. Furthermore, the United Nations Embargo Against South African Apartheid Regime, on Sports and Culture (1970) which was precedented by the International

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (20th November, 1963) and thereon buttressed by the International Convention

on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid (1973),

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38

precipitated that those Martial Artist who were in South Africa should acquire ventilation of their talents, and conversely they privately visited

Botswana and contributed their knowledge to the Martial Arts fraternity in Botswana. Therefore, the end result was that the country benefited

from the martial arts inputs from such individuals. And these individuals are herein remembered and acknowledged. Wherefore, given the ambit of this background and developments, the appropriate approach,

perception and appreciation of Botswana’s Martial Arts should be construed and perceived along the contours and landscapes of progression and merit as depicted below;

The period before the attainment of independence, when many of

the people in Bechuanaland sought employment in South Africa and subsequently some acquiring the Martial Arts knowledge and skills (1950 – 1966).

The period when some of the individuals who were in South Africa,

came back into Botswana and began the task of teaching and propagating Martial Arts in the country (1966 – 1980).

The period when within Botswana, the Martial Arts began to evolve, be established and propagated by all the individuals who had remained in the country. Hence the period of

institutionalization and domestication Martial Arts (1969 – 2000).

The period when the domestic Martial Arts acquired the potential and capacity to participate on the international dimension of Martial Arts (1980 – 2000).

In the light of the above it must however, be pointed out that such phases are not distinct but rather interphasing. Wherefore in order to

acquire the latitude of clarity and structural convenience in this very work, the academic distinction is adopted and such approach is

recommended thus attaining and giving out a better framework or methodology of presenting this Martial Arts history. It is also believed that out of this endevour and structural layout, the general intentions of

making all of us to empathize with the achievements of all our people past, present and future would be made much easier and more direct.

Therefore, once the coherent and appriciating focus, momentum and placement has been achieved in this work some common understanding would be collectively gained with the ultimate attention on the starting

point which has been the epicenter of Martial Arts, and that is Gaborone (Botswana), through the Black Arrow Karate Dojo.

Given above postulation, the fundamental imperative at this moment is to show that the Martial Arts as found in Botswana is not an isolated,

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immune event and condition, or even very peculiar to her environment. Therefore, the point of tremendeous importance is that our present day

and future Martial Artists should transcend their circumferenced minds, stylism, associationism and environment. They must go deeper and back

into the years 653 BC because the entirety of the truth lies somewhere in the beginnings of time.

The significance of this quantum leap into the past and beginnings is to ensure that all those who are in the honest pursuit of this legacy, should acquire the deeper measure of comfortable depth and placement, with

this dispensation that which crystallizes into being sustained in new perceptions and appreciation of the present Martial Arts. In these

premises and context, one becomes more minded, persuaded and oblidged to cite the words of one of the Founding Fathers of Karate as thus;

[T]O SEARCH FOR THE OLD IS TO UNDERSTAND THE NEW.

THE OLD, THE NEW

IS A MATTER OF TIME..” GRANDMASTER GICHIN FUKANOSHI It is through this telescope, dimension, awareness and understanding

that the gravitation of intellectual inquiry should be directed into the past. This is important and significant in order to avoid the aspect of

bondaged thinking, perception and perspectives as is common cause today due to the concept of stylism. Therefore to this very end, our telescope, enquiry and navigation should be adverted and focused on

Nubia, Egypt, India, Our Land, China and Japan who are the root source of all Martial Arts in the world.

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CHAPTER TWO

THE EVOLUTION AND DIVERSITIES OF MARTIAL ARTS

THE NATURE OF MARTIAL ARTS: PARADIGM

he Martial Art science is fundamentally not static but rather quite dynamic and fluid in its nature, character and pervacity. Thence it

is constantly changing and adapting to the new conditions, needs and aptitudes of each generation and time. It is this unique

transcendent nature that makes Martial Arts profound and wonderous as a legacy that is beneficial to each generation inheriting it.

Oikiru-Ryu Karate Jitsu Do (Oikado) has long recognized and subscribed to the cogent view and philosophy that portends and considers Martial Arts to be as it is. Regardless of name and technical preferences, which

are but only a creature of innovative minds and spirit of various Martial Artist. Furthermore, that styles are basically products and hybrid

composition and function of borrowed and invented techniques which are then, infused with personal interpretations, adaptations or modifications of the various;

TECHNIQUES. STRATEGIES.

CONCEPTS. THEORIES.

PHILOSOPHIES. INTERPRETATIONS.

Once such modifications and adaptation had been completed, then the aspect of naming and propagandazation becomes the final and ultimate

concern. It is the philosophy inherent in these new creations that makes each to be distinct and worthy of the primodial essence of,

PRESERVATION. PROMOTION. PROPAGATION.

hence invoking the momentum and aptitude of style justification and

identification as is prevalent in the Martial Arts to this day. It is believed that once the above premise is understood, it then becomes

an apparent and logical reasoning and conclusion that in the final analysis no style can in whatsoever terms, claim the immutable fact that

is a “pure” style and/or “traditional style”. More precisely in the context

T

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of technical substantiveness and creative originality. Should such a claim be advanced and advocated, that would certainly be defying the

paradox of logic, and historical truth because and more so that nothing can actually originate from a vacuum. When the Martial Arts is

holistically considered and analysed, one would fathom the ineluctable conclusion that the intrinsic dynamics of Martial Arts are prompted and grounded on the fact of transformations based on the ingenuity,

inspiration, vision and the fundamental desire for innovation and technical growth of the many Martial Artists. These being the Martial Artists who were involved and concerned in the past and present. Once

the new systems have been created and put into place they would then certainly serve their purpose, and in time they would further undergo the

natural process of mutation, innovation, speciation and adaptability. Such a point of transformation will be engineered as a natural and inevitable process by some of the individuals (Practitioners) who are

greatly gifted with the qualities of;

THINKING. VISIONING. INGENUITY.

INNOVATION. CREATIVITY.

in their Martial Arts. Thereby transcending the frontiers of conventionality and stagnant comformances. This point of view and

conclusion is substantially evidenced in the history of Martial Arts. Therefore in order to realize this position, some styles would be prismed in order to determine their scope and sources of origin. This approach

which shall be exploited in the cause of this exposition in order to point out the golden link in all martial arts styles. Furthermore, it is also vital to emphasize and point out that the dynamic process of Martial Arts

transformation will never cease. Consequently, new styles will continue to emerge or evolve in the future and the old ones becoming more

redundant, out of place and time. In essence, the aspect of transformation in the Martial Arts is very important because it provides a conducive and dynamic environment that precipitates the quality and

ability of avoiding the conditions of congealment and complacency within the endemic form and substance of style(s). Therefore, ensuring the ever

presence of creative vision and innovation, mind(s) and spirit(s). In the overall, the penultimate impact and effect of this process has advantaged mankind with many Martial Arts styles (system) in the excess of one

hundred Martial Arts Systems. Taking the above scenario further, the fundamental impetus then

becomes the basic fact that respective Martial Artists, in the pursuit of their goals in Martial Arts should not discard the essence of historical

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background and development of their own styles. They should not be ignorant or conviniently stand blind towards the existing asymmetry

inherent in all Martial Arts styles. Should they ignore this important dimension and platitude, that would certainly be a diversion without

merit or a pursuit of matters that are obviously wanting in their bane essence. The history of martial arts (styles) is an integral aspect of each technique found in the style hence giving out the vital re-compensate of;

ORIGINALITY, PLACEMENT AND,

PHILOSOPHY,

that is intimately connected and indispensable to all Martial Arts. It must further be stated and appreciated that, without overstating

matters and being inappropriately critical. It is important that a holistic view, understanding and practice of the Martial Arts should be adhered

to in order to gain the full progressive realization and ability that engages our compassion and empathization to the fullest. Rather than to engage in the dividing philosophies of stylisms and aptitudes that are grounded

and formulated on skewed perceptions, understandings, upended and distorted view of the essential nature of the Martial Arts in entirety.

THE ENDURABILITY OF STYLES AND SYSTEMS

Wherefore, when considering the above terrain, the resilient and the salient points to embrace are that all Martial Arts styles are basically

useful for the specific individuals and for the specific periods of time. Once these two dynamic factors had been reached and exhausted, then without the conditions of negotiation and compromise, the process of

inevitable innovation, adaptation, modification, speciation and transformation come into full focus and play. And as such these cannot

be resisted at all. Otherwise a cruel point of concealment and atrophy become the ultimate inevitability.

Generally this primordial condition and state of development is glaringly manifested and clear in the historical developments of the many modern

Martial Arts styles, as shall be surfed and elaborated from hereon. Once the conscious and critical impetus and momentum of change has been ignited and projected, it becomes an ultimate choice on the respective

system to go along with the changes in order to survive and to maintain its validity and identity or to become redundant and absolute. However, the major problem and challenge that emanated from this critical phase

of development and change(s) is found and lies on the core of two important fronts which are that;

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The respective practitioners would certainly see, anticipated and

agitate for the essential need for change, modification, innovation within the system. More so that they would have outgrown the

basic concept, purpose and ground of such a system.

On the otherhand, there would be the fact that the mentors would

be dogmatic, restrictive, rigid and unembracing of the inevitability of change and innovation within their own system. Underneath such resistance there would be the endemic fear of having the

emaciation of the identity of their own creation, stature and powerful influence of their philosophy on the system.

Consequently, the characteristics of bias and self preservation become manifested and dominant.

Other reasons that justified the momentum for change or innovation are

basically the inevitable realization that the conditions of congealment, atrophy, monotony and retardment should be avoided alternately be overcomed within the main system with the point of immediacy because

of exponentiality. The culminating point of these divergent views and perceptions was the

ultimate emergence of conflictive and confrontational fronts in the realm of Martial Arts. That which in most cases caused the break aways from

the main stream of the style. Once this disassociation has been effected from the main style, the ceded faction would undergo a process of revolutionization being the core upon which the innovations will be

effected. Until such a point that the new exponential nature and identity is attained, validated and impressed on others. When all the changes had been accommodated including the naming, branding propagation

and advertising of the new system as the main task then a new entity exist. It is through this dynamic process that the many present day

Martial Arts system came into their existence. THE IMPERATIVES OF INNOVATION AND CHANGE

It must also be pointed out that some mentors did have an intelligent

vision of realizing the need for innovations and thus permitted their implementations through their own initiatives and those of their students. Basically, the overall advantage of the martial arts

transformations was the acquisition of diversity of styles and the avoidance of mono- cultured styles which had the effects of dwarfing or retarding the technical exponentiality, artistic versality, comprehensivity

and progressive realization of potentials and wealth of Martial Arts.

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THE TRADITONALISM AND SPECIATION IN MARTIAL ARTS.

Inherent to the concept of the evolution and speciation of Martial Arts is the basic consideration that some Martial Arts systems are designated

with the status of being “traditional” and “non traditional” in character, origin, and nature. Should the view be spawned that some martial Arts styles are as abovementioned, the intent therefore to obtain precedence

over any other style becomes the compelling, and impelling momentum that eventually brings about the aptitudes of fragmentations rather than unifications of the techniques, with concepts and the philosophy.

Conversely, such a state of fragmentation will inevitably impact on the

various angles of dispensation of Martial Arts in the contexts of;

TEACHING.

PRACTICE. TRAINING.

ORGANIZATION. INSTITUTIONS. INDIVIDUALIZATION.

In Oikado, the perception and view point grounded on the aspect of traditional and non-traditional is considered as romantic, and utopian

and fundamentally, all styles are a derivative of another style. This is so because knowledge in its true nature does not conform to the sentiments

and barriers constituted by the notions of traditions and non traditions. Our view and postulation is that because at the end and depth of all things, Martial Arts is Martial Arts as it is, and nothing more. Therefore,

the absence of such artificial rigidity and fragmentation constitutes the premodial source of fluid, cohesive and wholesome knowledge. Therefore, when adhering to the platitude and perception of

“traditionalism” certain critical questions emerges and beget intellectual inquiry and sounding in that;

What is tradition, and whose tradition should be given precedent

or used as a benchmark or standard, and on what merits?

Are other traditions not deserving or wanting so as to negate their

contextual capability, capacity and potentiality to be used as such albeit, to be an integral part of that special knowledge of Martial Arts. Finally, are the merits so negative as to warrant non

consideration and potential inclusion or infusion?

Is the tradition preferred static or stagnant, insusceptible to the

characteristic of changes, integration, individual preference and

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diversed intellectual and practical outlooks of the respective or collective Martial Artists?

To what extent is such a tradition compatible with the traditions,

values, aspirations, cultural and social aspirations of all the recipients of Martial Arts. (Globally). And what criteria and merit has been used to determine that contextual extent and how?

What is the penultimate evidential and technical value of the

concept of traditional and non traditional on the overall nature,

character and merit of the Martial Arts and the personal development goal?

What is the exponential intrinsic value and comprehensive quality

on the individuals potentials; physically, intellectually, spiritually,

morally, socially and culturally. Does the concept and adherence to the norm of traditional and non traditional styles bring forth to

all the recipients of Martial Arts a pervasive benefit, common understanding without the inclination of monopoly and down grading of others.

It is pointed out that all the issues that had been raised in the above ambit are basically intended to stimulate and motivate a renewed

thinking, inquiry, mooting and evaluation into some of the beliefs and impression held within the Martial Arts. This inquiry is important in

order to arrive at a holistic view and common understanding that some of those beliefs and concepts do not hold true for the present age and time. Furthermore, to point out that some of these upheld notions ultimately

create and result in a state of subtle distortions that inevitably constitutes inhibitions and fragmentations unnecessarily. They thwart the quality to enhance the progressive realization of the essence and

substance of Martial Arts harmonization globally and scientifically when given the present day global parameters, mindset and setup of systems of

martial arts. It is conceded however that, usually the fact of time and depth of

awareness of the respective Martial Artists would determine and distil the fundamental essence, difference and impacts. Thereby affording a

proper dispensation without the elements of distortions based on the concepts of traditional and non-traditional Martial Arts. Therefore the acquisition of the potential of attaining the immense aptitude of persuing

the Martial Arts without the presence of limiting bias, prejudice and path become fulfilled in the essence of a profound mind.

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THE COMMON DENOMINATOR IN MARTIAL ARTS SYSTEMS.

It must be made abundantly clear that all styles of Martial Arts are a progency or derivative of some other style. The so called tradition become

somehow diluted in its absolute essence and claim of originality, Thence, each style contains the intrinsic and inherent genetic fabrics which had been derived from the preceding style or system, being the parent or

grandparent style or system. It is out this observation, contention, inheritance and innovations incurred into, that a new style or system emerges. The contentious point and fact herein is this, it can never be

said that a style has emerged or originated from a vacuumed condition or environment. The position averred above, stands out as uncontroversial

or uncontroverted and of universality in nature and character regardless of the fact that one system or another is of African, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Malaysian or European origins. In all these systems the

immutable fact and truth is that they do have common characteristics, techniques, theories, concepts, strategies and philosophies that are

essentially the same, adopted from other systems or styles, modified to customize the individual needs and preferences. Further to make same unique and dynamic within the preferred point of view context and

functionality. Therefore, the significance of this view, point and argument is to show and achieve the following;

TO DISPEL THE CHRONIC MYTH AND DISTORTED VIEW AND NOTION THAT SOME STYLES OR SYSTEMS ARE SUPERIOR

FROM OTHERS.

THAT ONE STYLE IS “PURE STYLE” FROM OTHER STYLES, A

BLANTED MISDIRECTION OR MISEDUCATION MISCONCEPTION THAT IS DELIBERATELY AND CONVENIENTLY PERPETUATED AND UTILIZED TO EXPLOIT

THE IGNORANCE OF OTHERS AND TO WIDEN THE POINT OF FRAGMENTATIONS.

TO DETERMINE AND ALIGN THE CORRECT PERCEPTION,

PERSPECTIVE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE INTRINSIC AND

PATENT RELATIONSHIP EXISTING IN ALL THE STYLES OR SYSTEM REGARDLESS OF NAMES.

THE UNIVERSAL CONCEPT OF HARMONISATION IN MARTIAL ARTS. It is undisputed that once the corrections and understanding of these

things has been done without prejudice, self interest and bias. That would certainly be the beginning of an immense leap of news transformations and tremendous benefit to all. In that all the illusions,

fallacies and bondaged minds would be abrogated, pacified, rehabilitated

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and altogether removed. Then that would lead to the profound landscape and vortex of;

HARMONIZATION

INTEGRATION. HOLISTIC PARTICIPATION WHOLESTIC PERCEPTIONS

UNIVERSALITY of all the different styles (system) in the contextual framework of;

TECHNIQUES.

PHILOSOPHY. HISTORY.

THEORY.

STRATEGY. PRACTICE.

TRAINING.

INTELLECTUALITY. CREATIVITY.

without abandoning the core or actual form and substance within the system concerned. The fundamental focus will be based and congruented

entirely on the principles and truths of;

ACCOMMODATION AND MUTUALITIES,

COMMONALITIES RATHER THAN DIFFERENCES, GOALS OF THE HOLISTIC DISCIPLINE OF MARTIAL ARTS, SYNERGISM AND THE FUNDAMENTAL CONSTANCE.

UNCONDITIONALITY AND HARMONISATION.

Once all the abovementioned had been aptly articulated, distilled, crystalized, appreciated, and implemented without reference and preference of bias then the correct alignment to the right objective will be

acquired with unparalled outcome. Such acquisition will come with profoundness of worth, tremendous benefit to the whole of mankind rather than to serve individualistic goals, aspirations and customized

paths.

In the same token, an achievement such as the above will ensure that the Martial Artists participation in their diversed context, potentials and capacities will certainly approach, acquire, embrace and use Martial Arts

as a living and dynamic entity. An entity that which is constantly changing with times and widely, immensely being beneficial to the whole

of mankind. In this very approach and understanding, the illusion of innocence and bias will be removed thus overcoming the difficulties created by the prejudices and the dilemma caused and imposed upon by

the rigid and myopic concepts of stylism.

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THE EMBRACING PERCEPTION AND VISION: MARTIAL ARTS.

In order to create a balanced, conducive and tolerant environment for the Martial Arts, it must be noted strongly that the starting point though not

always being the ending point, is the history and tradition that is inherent because these two planes of articulation gives out the challenging dynamics that which must be met and over-comed. Above

all, they offer the vantage point upon which the entrenched convictions can be challenged, adapted and overturned in order to realize the progressive participation and harvesting in the wealth and universality of

the Martial Arts. It must be highlighted further that, one must consistently canoe in the Martial Arts realm with an open mind. The

mind that is complemented with the purpose of the heart and inquisitive mind. A critical and sensitive mind in order to avoid the prejudice, misconceptions, biases and skewed perceptions and understandings

which often become created by the belief and acceptances of entrenched conventions that ultimately become deemed to be traditions. Thence,

causing the fact denial of these facts and assertion as aforesaid, would certainly not be appealing anymore. This is so because the nature of such an assumption and disposition will consistently be creating and

producing skewed and distorted;

VISIONS.

INGENUITY. CREATIVENESS.

PARTICIPATION. INTEGRATIONS.

within the realms of Martial Arts without the fundamental flexibility of tolerance and diversity. It must be emphasized once more that, such a challenge is poignantly special and demanding now, and has thrusted

itself into the forefront of our Martial Arts discourses, anticipation and aspirations globally. However, and assuming for the moment that we all

agree to disagree, without ignoring any of the apparent inconsistencies and being not blamable, all Martial Arts are the same at the apex of their best goals regardless of the names and brands. This is so unless one is

constituted otherwise. It is of course acknowledged that some of the Martial Artists will vehemently argue otherwise, and if it be so, then no

one can make crab to walk straight. In the light of the aforegoing, it would be appropriate and as of

tremendous significance and value that several styles of martial arts should be taken and looked into with the main purpose of determining the basis of their origins in order to illustrate and buttress the point and

fact of martial arts evolution and diversity(s). In order to achieve this goal and end a concise account will be presented and made affordable for

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the comprehension of the aspirant without defeating the main objective of this work.

Penultimately, the aspirants must appreciate and accept the fact that the

development and mutation of martial arts styles and systems was fundamentally motivated, precipitated and impelled by individual practitioners who had great vision, creativity, passion and ingenuity.

Thus having the power and the potential, ability to change the face, nature, character, image and direction of the Martial Arts forever, all over the World.

It is on the above submission that we advocate that, a true Martial Artist

must have the tremendeous potential, capacity and intellectuality to take up a perspective that combines different ways of seeing into the one coherent vision, a totality of reflections and actions found in the true

masters of Martial Arts, thence one would be a splendid gift to the world forever.

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CHAPTER THREE

THE FOUNDATION OF MARTIAL ARTS IN

BOTSWANA (1969)

THE POLITICAL QUAGMIRE IN SOUTHERN AFRICA (1960-1994)

he Southern African region was in the quagmire of liberation struggle which emanated from the countries of:

ANGOLA. NAMIBIA (SOUTH-WEST AFRICA). MOZAMBIQUE.

ZIMBABWE (RHODESIA). SOUTH AFRICA.

Which impacted on the countries of Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland, Zambia and Tanzania. The core of this turmoil was on the point of self

determination, when the colonial and white regimes refused to comply with the wishes of the majority of the colonized. Thus liberation

movements were formed which engaged the respective colonial governments, as was warned by the prophesy of Dr. Kwame Nkuruma.... [A]frica wants her freedom. Africa must be free. It is a simple call

but is also a signal, a red warning to those who will tend to ignore it….” Abridged Source: Dr. Kwame Nkuruma’s address at the United Nations 1960.

This umbrage made many people to be displaced to the countries of Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland, Zambia and Tanzania. The displaced sought political asylum in the host countries. Conversely, in their

numbers some of them were martial arts practitioners of great standing. These martial artists, overtime contributed significantly in the

development and growth of martial arts in the host countries. A case in point involves the following individuals;

SENSEI VUSIMUZI NDLOVU, who came from Rhodesia and when in Botswana, he founded the Tsosamotse Shukokai Karate Club

Bontleng, Gaborone.

SENSEI JAMES THORNE, who came from South Africa and when

in Botswana, he founded the Sailong Kung Fu School in Gaborone.

T

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SENSEI CHARLES MTHOMBENI who came from Orlando, South Africa and instructed the Fukayama Kung Fu School in Lobatse,

Botswana.

SENSEI CLYFFE MOLEFE who came from Leeupardsvlei, South Africa and instructed in the Fukayama Kung Fu School in Lobatse, Botswana.

SENSEI HENRY MABOE who came from Mabopane, South Africa

and instructed in the Fukayama Kung Fu School in Lobatse,

Botswana.

The input of the above mentioned individuals was great and magnificent, same spiraled the quality development and output in Botswana’s martial arts. These individuals complemented and supplemented the scare

resources of qualified martial arts instructors at the time, thereby causing a historic phase in Botswana which was entitled the rising of

martial arts in Botswana. On the other dimension, the United Nations Embargo Against South

African Apartheid Regime On Sports and Culture (1970), caused that South Africa become internationally isolated in the context of sport interaction with other countries. The above embargo was precedented by

the International Convention on Eliminated of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (20th November 1963) which impacted on the Sport

Culture in South Africa. When South Africa was put under pressure, especially when the resolutions of the International Community were sounded, particularly that of the;

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON THE SUPPRESSION AND

PUNISHMENT OF THE CRIME OF APARTHEID (1973).

The quagmire intensified internally and externally causing the arm struggle for political independence to be a critical issue internationally,

this was sounded as follows; THE OPPRESSED NOW ANSWER WITH GUNS: the President Sir

Seretse Khama has said wars of liberation are raging in Southern Africa because the oppressed people of this region can no longer

endure in stoic silence, daily humiliations and depriviation of freedom and justice. For many milllions of our fellow men in this troubled world, this solemn declaration remains a mere statement of

intent. The conscience of mankind continues to be outraged by various acts of injustice… If we are to have peace in the world, we must reaffirm our believe

that all human beings are born equal in dignity and rights…”. ABBRIDGE

SOURCE: PRESIDENT SIR SERETSE KHAMA OF THE REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA ADDRESSING THE

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UNITED NATION ASSEMBLY DURING THE HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 10TH DECEMBER 1977. DAILY NEWS MONDAY DECEMBER 12TH, 1977 NO 234. The above political environment made many sportsmen and women of South Africa to be isolated from the world but crazing for international

participation. Conversely, the internal dynamic motivated the inception of the;

SHIHON KYOKUSHINKAI KARATE COLLEGE (DURBAN)

which then promoted the multi racial and the unique tournament of the;

ALL STYLES KARATE CHAMPIONSHIP (BLOODY-RING)

wherein the people of all colour participated thus defying the gravitations of apartheid. On the same tone and wave, some of the South African

martial arts instructors came to Botswana to render their technical expertise that they have in martial arts. Their contribution enhanced the progress and development of martial arts in Botswana. Some of these

prominent instructors were;

GRANDMASTER KOOS CHAKA. GRANDMASTER SAKIE LOW. GRANDMASTER DAVIE MAAS.

GRANDMASTER LIONEL MARRINUS. Given the light and background of isolation of South Africa in the context

of sports and culture, many other individuals went to train martial arts in their private capacities in South Africa especially in the well

established martial arts institutions or schools such as the Shihon Kyokushinkai Karate College, Durban under the guidance of Grandmaster Abduk Kader Ismail.

Therefore, given the above background the appropriate perception,

approach and appreciation of Botswana martial arts beginning could be done with better clarity and truth. Conversely, it is crucial to construe and appreciate Botswana’s martial arts within the social and political

contours that prevail through out to the present day. In compliance to the above-mentioned, the treatment and development of this work will be frameworked along these lines;

The period prior to the attainment of independence when some of

the people in Bechuanaland were in employment in South Africa. Due to this factor they acquired the knowledge and the skills of

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53

martial arts (1950-1966). A few of these individuals will be identified.

The post independence period when the returnees from South

Africa commenced to impart their martial arts in the country from 1966-1980.

The period wherein the indigenous people, schools and clubs began to get involved in the aspect of institutionalizing and/or domestification of Martial Arts in the country.

The period when the domestic martial arts achievements got

upsurged and spiraled into international dimension (1985 -2010).

The period of internal diversification and proliferation of martial

arts systems and associations (1995-2010).

Of great significance is that one must observe that these periods do interphase and can not clinically be separated or compartilized. Notwithstanding this fact, one should bear in mind that the period

ascribed to will be backgrounded by the external and international historical events and achievements of other countries so as to create a comprehensive parallel view, progression and conceptualization. The

international perspective on martial arts will ultimately converge with that of the Botswana’s landscape.

Therefore, having pointed out that a clear cut format of the periods in question is not possible, all endeavour has been made to ensure a

systematic flow of the vital issues in order to give a better framework and point of quality reference.

On a salient and finer note, it must be understood that the general intension of this treatise is to capture as much as is possible the past

and present events, and to empathise with them. The significance thereto, being that a common understanding, collective appreciation and sense of direction and worth can be achieved with dynamic dignity and

inspiration.

THE FOUNDING FATHERS OF MARTIAL ARTS IN BOTSWANA. (THE BLAKADO MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL)

(1969)

After independence in 1966 Botswana needed a University. In order to achieve this objective, Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland came into a

collective enterprise and established the;

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UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA, LESOTHO AND SWAZILAND (UBLS)

Each country had a main campus as following:

BOTSWANA – GABORONE CAMPUS. LESOTHO – ROMA CAMPUS.

SWAZILAND – KWALUSENI CAMPUS. In the context of sport culture these campuses interacted through the

intervarsity games on the alternative basis. On the 1st October 1969 the students who were interested in the discipline of martial arts came

together and formed the first Shukokai Karate School (dojo) in the country, the Shukokai Karate School which was named;

THE BLACK ARROW KARATE DOJO (BLAKADO)

all the members of this school did overtime, came to be recognised and revered as the founding fathers of Martial Arts in Botswana and their

membership grew exponentially and as shown below:

THABO FAKO.

TEFO O. MOKAILA. LIZO NGCONGCO.

FRANK RAMSDEN. ABRAM SPUNA

KESUPILE.

GABOTSHWANE KAMODI

SAM LEBOTSE.

CECIL MAINE. MARX MOPHUTING.

MMOSHE MOOKODI. BALANG BALANG. MASISI MASISI.

PHILLIP TSUMAKE. MICHAEL MZWINILA.

GILBERT SEKGOMA. ALBERT SCHEFFERS. CHIPPO GAOBAKWE.

OLEKOTSE KOMA. ITUMELENG I. LUBINDA. MOGREY MABILE.

THABO MAILO. BAFANA MALABA.

M.K. MARUPING.

MODIRI MATTHEWS. THABANE NDUNGE.

LESLIE MOATSWE. SNOWIE MODISANYANE. MONAGENG

MOGALAKWE. K. MOLAPONG. WILFRED MOKETO.

SEBETSO MOLEFE. DAVID MONNAKGOSI.

MOSES MOTSWAGAE. LOUIS FISHER. KATANE SITHOLE.

BAPASI MPHUSU. THEBEYAME CHAOKA.

BRENDA KEBONANG. RAPHAEL CHEPETE. SETHONI MADIKWE.

JOHN MAPHANYANE. SAM MORAKE. GREGORY MOLOMO.

JOHN LEBOTSE. SKIPPER J. KESUPILE.

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VICTOR RANTSHABENG. SYLVESTER SELEKA.

SENTSETSA PILANE. EPHRAIM MASHIANE.

ABDUL KADER. ANDERSON JELE. KESIAMETSWE JELE.

SAMUEL LEBODI. MASEGO

MPOTOKWANE.

ENOCK BASIMOLODI. BATSALEWANG I.S.

DICK BAYFORD. TEBOGO BOTLHOLE. SENIKWE CHIMELA.

HOSIA CHOKWE. DAVID DINTWA.

LETLHOGONOLO DIMBUNGU.

CASSIUS LOSHOPE.

PETER MASIE. THEKO T. FAKO LAWRENCE MATSOGA.

JOHANNES MOABELO. JOEL MOEPI.

GILBERT MOKGABISI. ISHMAEL MOLOI. MOSIENYANE M.

BAKGATLA MOLEFE. FURY MBONGWE. ELIJAH MODIAKGOTLA.

MMOLOTSI MOGAPI. LOKWALO

MOSIENYANE. GAOFENGWE MOOKA. KILLER MUKUNO.

MOMPATI NDONJE. MOEMEDI

MODISENYANA JEFFREY MZWINILA. P. MATANTE.

G. KERAANG. OAGILE MOLEBELEDI.

AGGREY PEBA. SEEBA FRANK.

KEGODILE SAKAIO. ALBERT SEFETANE. ELLENOR SCHEFFERS.

SIMON SEISA. GILBERT SEKGOMA. DITHEBE SEJOE.

ANTHONY SIBIYA. SITHOLE SONKE.

SHATHISO TAMBULE. VICTOR SIBIYA. MOLEBATSI

TJADZIMULA. BALEFI TSIE.

EMMANUEL SABOKONE. K. NTSEKE. R. MASOLE.

I.B. MATSHIDISO. E. GIBBS. P. MATITING.

BARUDILE OTUMILE. CLEMENT PHELEFU.

KELETSO RAKHUDU. EMMANUEL SABOKONE. RICHARD SEGODI.

EAGILE SEGOSEBE. CHARLES SCHEFFERS. DAVID SETLHONO.

GILBERT SIMELA. KHEHLE SIBIYA.

MASHINGO THIPE. ERNEST TIROYAKGOSI. BOBBY TLHABIWE.

BUTTER TUMOTUMO WILLIAM

KGABOETSILE. MOSES MOTSWAGAE.

The above and in their collective work and vision began the process of progating and uplifting martial arts in Botswana.

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The BLAKADO School proceeded to outsource the South African Martial ArtS instructors of prominence namely;

GRANDMASTER KOOS CHAKA.

GRANDMASTER SAKIE LOW. who were experts in the martial arts systems of;

SHUKOKAI KARATE DO.

The BLAKADO prospered and became the powerhouse of martial arts in Botswana, inter alia it utilized the Kutlwano magazine to spread its

message. Many of its members became experts in the field of martial arts. Overtime, they entered the Secondary Schools in Botswana and began establishing martial artS clubs, a case in point is the;

GABORONE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MOEDING COLLEGE. SEEPAPITSO SECONDARY SCHOOL.

The uniqueness about the BLAKADO school was that it interacted with other different systems of martial arts participated in their clinics, gradings and tournaments. They encouraged and helped other martial

arts schools of different systems to grow, develop and to be rooted in the country. In substantiating this position, this must be discerned below;

[B]LAKADO is also proud of its respectable and cordial relationships with other clubs, BLAKADO contends that, when all is said and

done, Karate is Karate irrespective of the style. Furthermore, if an individual is good he is good no matter where he trains…” ABRIDGE

SOURCE: BLAKADO: A HANDBOOK OF KARATE. PUBLISHED MARCH, GABORONE, 1980.

It must be pointed out that the conditions of training were difficult in that many martial arts clubs/schools of the 1970 decade lacked financial

and material resources. The issues of sponsorships from any sector were out of the question given the socio-economic standards of the country at

the time. This status quo was clarion eloquently by the BLAKADO Martial Arts School as thus;

[W]hile the main difficulty faced by all Karate clubs in Botswana is the non-availability of high graded professional instructors, as well as lack of proper training facilities. The existing few clubs are well

established and determined towards the advancement of Karate not only within clubs but in the country as a whole. With frequent and

well planned tournaments karate can be proved to be a popular sport.

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BLAKADO does not have a fancy gymnasium as much as this

desirable. Its humble gym has acted as a stimulus for the club to work harder. BLAKADO is proud of those individual(s) members who

have applied its principles to life in general. Many of those are successful students who do well in School and employed adults ….” ABRIDGE SOURCE: BLAKADO: A HANDBOOK OF KARATE: PUBLISHED MARCH, GABORONE 1980.

Clearly the above put into perspective the hardships, need, aspirations and visions upheld by the martial artists during this era. On a different

and crucial note, the reader is persuaded to parallel this period with that of the 1990 decade as shall be discussed. Notwithstanding the above, it must be pointed out that the BLAKADO martial arts school rose to great

height in the 1970 decade. However, when each individual therein responded to the calling of life and careers; the school declined in the 1980s. Given that situation, many of its membership rose to prominent

positions in the society, government and corporate world as leaders and role models to the next generations of martial artists.

THE MARTIAL ARTS PIONEERS IN BOTSWANA

(1950-1975) In 1950 the present day country was known as Bechuanaland Protectorate.

Many Bechuana’s sought employment in South Africa precisely in the mines. Conversely, some took interest in the study of martial arts and

even emerged with some great measure of prominence. Overtime when they retired from work in South Africa, they return to their home which was by now Botswana. They began to teach martial artS to the locals and

set up martial artS schools. These individual then got recognition as the veteranS and pioneers in the martial arts of Botswana. Given this dispensation the ones identified herein below shall demonstrate the

status of these facts.

SENSEI HUSSAIN GATOGANG PANDOR: He was born in 1942 at Phitshane Molopo village and went to

South Africa wherein he began the study and training of martial arts. The system he pursued was SHUKOKAI KARATE DO. In

1961 he became a team member of the South African Karate Squad that went to represent South Africa in Japan. The same feat was repeated when he went to Mozambique in 1965. On or

about the 15th March 1970 Sensei Pandor returned to Botswana and settled at Lobatse. Overtime, he opened the martial art school which was called the;

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DRAGON SHUKOKAI KARATE DOJO:

Also he was the first and only man who built a cinema called

Yours and Mine in Lobatse. Historically he is the 1st Motswana to acquire a Black Belt in Shukokai Karate Do from South Africa.

SENSEI FISHER TUELO MASILO: He was born in 1936 at Tshidilamolomo village and worked in South Africa from 1950s. He worked in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Kimberly. On the

tour of his work he studied Boxing and Mrtial Arts of SHOTOKAN KARATE DO. On the 27th October 1976 he returned

to Botswana being the First Dan Black Belt in Martial Arts. He settled at Lobatse and thereon opened,

THE LOBATSE SHOTOKAN KARATE DOJO.

SENSEI SHEILAR MOTHOFELA: He was born in 1945 at Pitsane village and went to work in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. During his stay in South Africa he studied the martial arts of

JUDO. He attained his 1st Black Belt in 1965. On the 20th April 1973 he returned to Botswana and settled at Lobatse. In Lobatse he secured employment with the Botswana Meat Commission

whereat he opened the BMC JUDO in 1975, in 1979, this JUDO club merged with Fukayama Kung Fu School.

SENSEI DANIEL LETSIBOGO MONCHO: He was born at

Setlhareseleele village in 1938. He then went to South Africa and

worked at Kimberly, Johannesburg and Mafikeng. During this period he trained the martial arts of JUI-JUTSU-DO, and he attained his 1st Black Belt in 1963. In March 1974, he came to

Botswana a whereat he secured employment with the Lobatse Town Council, then later on with BCL in Selebi Phikwe. He

interacted very much with the Fukayama Kung Fu School, Lobatse.

The uniqueness about the above mentioned individuals was that even though they reached the ages sixty and above, they continued teaching,

grading students in martial arts. Furthermore, they worked as a team in their concerted effort to martialized Botswana. They interacted with many of the existing martial arts schools in the country.

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SEMPAI MAKGABENYANA PATRICK S: He was born in

Alexander Township, Johannesburg in 1954. He attended his Primary Education at Montobello, Pietermaritzburg (Natal

Province) then at St. Matthews Catholic School (Rockville), Soweto. When he was 14 years (1968) he began the study of martial arts in Kliptown and Tladi where he lived. In Tladi he was

instructed by Sensei Koos Chaka. On the 15th December 1969 he came to Botswana and settled at Lobatse. He then attended St. Theresa’s Primary School then went to St. Joseph’s College

(1972). When at St. Joseph’s College he established the martial art club for the students and by 1975 he established the martial

artS school at Lobatse which was named the;

FUKAYAMA KUNG FU SCHOOL

THE AWAKENING OF LOBATSE (MARTIAL ARTS).

Lobatse began to emerge as a power house in martial arts because of the existence of these clubs and their students:

THE DRAGON SHUKOKAI KARATE DO.

CHARLES PANDOR. PRO BOY GEORGE MAUCO.

KABELO LESEDI. THAPELO GATOGANG. JOSEPH PHAFO.

MOSIMANE MOGAMI. PHILIMON NARE. PERCIVAL MONTY

MTHETHWA. ANDREW MOKULA.

ISHO ABDULA. MOSALA MOSALA.

BATMAN MOSIMANEGAPE. BUKIE GEORGE. PEPE S. MOSIMANEGAPE.

ANDY MOYO. JOSEPH SHARRIF PANDOR. WILLIAM NKWE.

and others.

THE FUKAYAMA KUNG FU SCHOOL

This school was founded by Sensei Patrick Makgabenyana in 1975, it

was situated at the Peleng Community Centre, Lobatse. Some of its founding students were;

SAMUEL RAMAEBA (MAHALAPYE).

MAKANA TIZAR

TYIBILIKA (RAMOTSWA).

THABO KEREKANG (LOBATSE).

LEBBEOUS

PELOEWETSE (MOGOBANE).

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THULAGANYO MOGOBE (KANYE).

MICHAEL LEOGANG MOTLHABI(LOBATSE).

CHRISTINUS RAMULA (LOBATSE).

REEVES LESIGE

(LOBATSE). DOMINIC

MAKGABENYANA

(LOBATSE). SYLVESTER SELEKA

(GABANE). SIOUX KGOMETHA

MOTLALEKGOSI

(MOLEPOLOLE). PHINDA KEEBINE

(MOCHUDI). GARVIN MOLEBODI

(MOCHUDI).

MARX NGWAKO (MMADINARE).

NUNU LESETEDI

(MAHALAPYE). MICHAEL VAN WYK

(WERDA). ZICKY SELETLO

(LOBATSE).

PATRICK MASOKWANE (GABANE).

GECKO KOLE

(LOBATSE). CREASURE TLHONG

(GOODHOPE).

SOPHISTO NTHOBATSANG

(MAHALAPYE). JACKY PHUREGO

(GABANE). CARTHAGE

SORRINYANE

(RAMOTSWA). LESEGO BARUTI

(MAHALAPYE).

TOLLY MOSHASHO (LOBATSE).

SHADRACK KGOSIEMANG (GOODHOPE).

JIMMY KRUGER (WERDA).

ALBERT KGENGWENYANE (LOBATSE).

PENA SUZAN KOLE (LOBATSE).

MADUO CATHERINE

MONGALO (LOBATSE). EDNA MOTHEO

(LOBATSE). GREGORY NTEMI

MAKGABENYANA

(LOBATSE). ALEC TIRO (LOBATSE). MOSES MATHUMO

(LOBATSE). COLLEN

NYATSHANE(LOBATSE). and many others.

This school became famous for its pugilistic skills and it interacted with all other martial arts schools in Botswana. The consequence of its

reputation caused its members to establish satellite clubs in the various secondary schools such as Kgari Sechele Secondary School, Shashe River Secondary School, Molefi Secondary School, Swaneng Hill

Secondary School and least but not all, the Mater Spei College. In 1980, the teaching and trainings of the school was rooted at the University of Botswana.

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THE RISING OF MARTIAL ARTS IN BOTSWANA (1975 – 1980)

THE EXTERNAL FORCES IN THE REGION.

The intensification of the liberation struggle caused the displacement of many individual who came to Botswana as refugees. The climax of this process came after the 16th June 1976 Soweto Uprising when

unprecendeted numbers of refugees fled the white regime in South Africa. In this context those who were martial artist joined the local

martial arts schools while others founded their own. THE FOUNDING OF TSOSAMOTSE KARATE SCHOOL

This martial arts school was founded by Sensei Vusimuzi Ndlovu who came from Harare Rhodesia in 1976. He was then a 2nd Dan Black Belt

in the system of Shukokai Karate Do. The school was at Bontleng and using the Lesedi Community Hall. Some of the Founding Students were;

MADALA MPALE. MARTIN TSHUKUDU.

PEASANT NYONI. SOCCA ALEXANDER MORUAKGOMO.

SIMON TLHONG. LOUIS KHUPE. LEVY MRAZA RAMEDUPE.

NUNU LESETEDI. CHIPPO GAOBAKWE.

And others.

THE FOUNDING OF SAILONG KUNG FU SCHOOL This martial arts school was founded in 1975 by Kyoshi James Thorne

(7th Dan Black Belt) who was from South Africa. The school offered the system of Jeet Kune Do. Some of the founding students were;

WILLIAM RATSHIPA. JOEL MOEPI.

CARTHAGE TONY KENOSI.

NTHUE SEIPUBI.

LAZARUS MOKGWERE. CHOPPER

KGOMANYANE.

ANDREW RAMMIKA. RUSSIA MOLAKE.

NATHAN KGABI. PHANUEL KGATHE. LEDIRETSE MOLAKE.

TOM TLADI. AGGREY MOSES.

MANTIS LEKWAPE.

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and others.

The school was training at the Cathedral Gaborone. It must be noted that, given the number of the martial arts schools in existence overtime, the

BLAKADO martial arts school in 1978 hosted a special tournament which was termed;

THE 1ST ALL STYLES KARATE CHAMPIONSHIP (BOTSWANA) 1978. This tournament was held at the University (UBLS), Gaborone and the clubs

that participated were;

SAILONG KUNGFU SCHOOL (GABORONE). FUKAYAMA KUNGFU SCHOOL (LOBATSE). BLAKADO SCHOOL (GABORONE).

SHOTOKAN KARATE SCHOOL (GABORONE). TSOSAMOTSE KARATE SCHOOL (GABORONE).

SHUKOKAI KARATE SCHOOL (LOBATSE). SANKUKAI KARATE SCHOOL (GABORONE).

This tournament was a great success and a special factor that encouraged everyone. The positions gained by the winners was as thus;

BLAKADO MARTIAL ART SCHOOL (GABORONE). TSOSAMOTSE MARTIAL ART SCHOOL (GABORONE).

FUKAYAMA KUNG FU SCHOOL (LOBATSE). SAILONG KUNGFU SCHOOL (GABORONE). SHOTOKAN MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL (GABORONE).

SANKUKAI MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL (GABORONE) In this tournament, the instructors present being;

SENSEI FISHER TUELO MASILO.

SENSEI VUSIMUZI NDLOVU. SENSEI HUSSAIN G. PANDOR. SENSEI PATRICK S. MAKGABENYANA.

SENSEI SHEILLAR MOTHOFELA. KYOSHI JAMES THORNE.

Entered into a conference whereby it was resolved that a National Body should be formed which would be the overall organ for all martial arts schools and

styles in Botswana.However, the intensions of this meeting did not materialized soon thereafter due to many intervensions, challenges and constraints at the time. For the record, since 1978 there has never been the All Styles Karate

Championship in Botswana to this date, and one wonders why?

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THE CONTRAINTS AND CHALLEGES IN MARTIAL ARTS

(1970 – 1980)

The Botswana martial arts were faced with many constraints and challenges in

the 1970-1980 decade. These were dimensioned as following;

The infrastructure in the country was poor and there was lack of training facilities, centres and venues. Even where they were found, these were far below the suitable training standards.

The martial arts schools were not financially empowered, there were no

sponsorships from any quatters. This condition was also exasperated

by the fact that at the time, sport was not viewed with the point of viable and beneficial enterprise, financial and otherwise.

There was lack of qualified and professional martial arts instructors

save those that had been identified in the treatize. The few that were

available were overstretched in that they had to cover wide regions of the country with meager resources.

The Headmasters of many Secondary Schools were very much reluctant

to embrace and permit the establishment of martial arts clubs in their

schools. Overtime, some eventually yielded and participated in the developments of these clubs.

The instructors who came to Botswana due to political reasons, had to live the country for various reasons and destinations internationally.

The instructors who continued with the work of teaching martial arts,

entirely used their personal resources to travel, organize tournaments,

gradings and clinics for the students.

The personal lives, careers and family commitments, constrained many matured martial artists of the time to be fully committed in the martial arts enterprise as a full time career or profession.

The level of awareness about the value of martial arts was very poor

and low. Martial arts then suffered much negative perception and

comprehension until the advent of 1980-2009 decades.

Notwithstanding the above, it is conceded that these adverse conditions ultimately and to a larger extent became the driving forces that enlivened, sustained and powered the culture and legacy of martial arts to this present

day. The above postulation was eloquently outlined as thus:

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[W]hile the main difficulty faced by all Karate clubs in Botswana is the non-availability of high graded professional instructors as well as lack of

proper training facilities, the existing few clubs are well established and determined towards the advancement of karate, not only within clubs but

in the country as a whole…….”ABRIDGED SOURCE: BLAKADO A HANDBOOK OF KARATE,

PUBLISHED MARCH, GABORONE 1980.

THE SHIHON KYOKUSHINKAI COLLEGE (DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA) AND LOBATSE BOTSWANA (1970-1980).

In March 1975, Sensei Gatogang Hussain Pandor and Sensei Makgabenyana ’Solomzi Patrick (now Black Belt) were commissioned by Grandmaster Abdul Kader Ismail of the Shihon Karate College of South Africa (Durban) to find out

and lay ground for the full introduction of Kyokushinkai Karate Do in Botswana.

The other aim was to encouraged and observe that Botswana does become a fully fledged and versatile martial arts community. This was considered crucial

because Botswana’s environment was more conducive for attracting the transplantation and existence of other different martial arts styles. The

fundamental interest of the Shihon Karate College was to introduce Kyokushinkai in Botswana, as it did in Namibia, Swaziland, Lesotho and Mozambique. In Swaziland this was done through the late Sensei Thabo

Thwala and in Namibia it was through Sensei Katjira Hambira. In 1979, the Shihon Karate College Team visited Botswana with the aim of

engaging BLAKADO and Fukayama Kung Fu Schools. Unfortunately, due to technical reasons which were prevalent then, the action did not take place. On

the fast track, Sensei Makgabenyana in 1996, sent Sensei Vusimuzi Matthews Setlhare to Durban. Whereon Sensei Setlhare underwent intensive training under Shihan Alpheous Mbuzeni Sabela (4th Dan Black Belt) owner of the Kwa

Zulu-Natal Martial Art Academy. Out of this process Sensei Setlhare came out with a 1st Dan Black Belt in Kyokushinkai Karate Do thus being the first native

to acquire same in Botswana. Sensei Matthews Vusimuzi Setlhare originated at Matsiloje village Francistown and a graduate of the University of Botswana and University of South Africa.

Overtime, it became evident that Botswana was gradually acquiring new forms of Martial Arts styles (systems) due to two important dynamics which were the

migration and external scholarship of students internationally. On the point of immigration, Botswana experienced a great influx of people from South Africa

seeking political asylum and others on transit to Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda. This period of movement of the people was during the apartheid era in South Africa.

For the record, it be noted that Grandmaster Abdul Kader Ismail through his Shihon Karate College has done great work and contribution in the landscape

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of martial arts development in the country and the Southern Africa region. This very fact should not be ignored nor minimized, due to his work great

martial art exponents were found such as;

GRANDMASTER RAYMOND MKHIZE.

GRANDMASTER SELBY MKHWANAZI.

GRANDMASTER HOOSAIN NARKER.

GRANDMASTER BOY NTSHANGASE.

GRANDMASTER ALPHEOUS SABELA.

GRANDMASTER BIGBOY GUMEDE.

GRANDMASTER EZRON DLOMO

GRANDMASTER CATHERINA MTHWANA.

GRANDMASTER NEVILLE PAULSEN.

GRANDMASTER WILLIAM QUANTOI.

GRANDMASTER ISAAC MASHININI.

GRANDMASTER SONTO MAZIBUKO.

Who took everything to the highest level and scales of mastership. In

recognition of the work of Grandmaster Abul Kader Ismail, the Supreme Grandmaster of Kyokushinkai Karate Do, the founder of same, being;

GRANDMASTER MASUTATSU OYAMA (1981)

Visited South Africa (Durban) wherein many martial artists were honoured and enlivened by such a grand visit and presence of the world’s greatest martial

artists.

On the closing note, it be recorded that the introduction of Kyokushin Kai Karate Do in Botswana came in 2010 when same was b being done by;

KYOSHI SAMUEL AMIGO RAMAEBA.

At Mahalapye village Botswana, and same experienced the constraints and

challenges of stylism in the country.

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CHAPTER FOUR

ANTIQUITY OF MARTIAL ARTS (ANCIENT BEGINNINGS)

EVERY CIVILIZATION AND CULTURE HAS SOME INCREDIBLE THINGS, IF

ONLY WE ARE WILLING AND READY TO LOOK AT IT, ON ITS OWN TERMS, MERIT, SINCERITY AND HUMILITY. THEN SOMETHING OF INCREDIBLE

ESSENCE WILL ALWAYS BE FOUND…. BEGINNING OF MARTIAL ARTS, ANCIENT AFRICA: OVERVIEW

It is common cause that Africa is the birthplace of humanity, sciences and

Martial Arts. The overview herein is to make a scholarly attempt to discover the great role

that Africa has played in the evolution, development and application of the Martial Arts science. Therefore in order to attain that very goal, a historical analysis, synopsis and argument becomes a crucial ground to work upon. It is

through this process that two ancient Kingdoms had be identified as our models and these are the;

KINGDOM OF NUBIA KINGDOM OF EGYPT

THE KINGDOM OF NUBIA

The Kingdom of Nubia was in ancient times divided into the Lower and Upper Nubia, along the Nile Valley. The Upper Nubia was nearest to the South of

Egypt, and in modern time same is found in the Central Sudan. The ancient Egyptians referred to the Kingdom of Nubia as the;

TA – SETI

The Nubians were of Negro origion and were called the Noba people and fundamentally were experts of great repute in the arts of archery and wrestling. It is noted most importantly that the Nubians participated in the;

NEOLITHIC REVOLUTION

(5th Millenium BC)

and this resulted in the Neothilic Society that also influenced the Old Kingdom

of Egypt. Around 3800 BC, the Nubian Culture blossomed and influenced all the surrounding societies including Egypt thereby Nubia became the mother of civilization to Egypt. This took place after the process of the unification of the

Lower and Upper Nubia into a Kingdom. Nubia subsequently became a trade corridor between Egypt and the Tropical Africa whereon ivory, minerals, ebony

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wood were in great demand in Egypt. The Nubians were distinguished wrestlers and of religious adherence to their martial arts because the same also gave

great social status. The champions were also recruited to join and serve in the Egyptian military, and more prominently as the;

MEDJAY

Wherein they served as garrison troops, and patrolled the desert policing or gendarmerie. They ultimately made Egypt to become a great military power. The Medjays were further used to protect valuable areas, palaces and temples

or religious complex as the elite force. One must see the visualmaterial called the,

EXODUS Gods and Kings

Given the above overview, it is apparent that the Martial Arts of Nubia

contributed greatly to the development of fighting skills, techniques and archery of the Egyptians especially during the period of the;

KINGDOM OF KERMA

The martial art of Nubia dates as far back as the years 2800 BC, before the birth of Christ. Therefore making same, the oldest martial art system known to date. In this context the present day martial arts benefited and acquired its

interpretation and tradition from this ancient martial art. The Martial Art aforementioned was in the Nuba Kingdom (Sudan) and same reached its apex

of refinement, sophistry and expression in the Kingdom of Egypt during 11th and 12th dynasty. The Nubian practiced the Martial Arts of wrestling, empty hand or bare hand combat/self defence and weaponry. It is on record that

there is no record in the world that can contradict or extinguish this claim about the ancient ways of combat by the Nubians.

The Nubia Martial Arts is the original source of all Martial Arts in Africa, Asia and Europe as they benefited from it. ABRIDGED SOURCE: NUBA WRESTLING BY GRANDMASTER

BPG NIGEL (NUBA ARCHIVES STUDY ON THE ANCIENT MARTIAL ARTS OF AFRICA KEMET-EGYPT). The Nuba Martial Arts spread throughout and the panacea thereof was in

Egypt because the Kingdom of Nubia became the mother of civilization to the Kingdom of Egypt. When the Egyptian power revived under the New Kingdom, the Egyptian armies invaded the Kerma Kingdom. This process was more

pronounced under the rule of;

PHAROAH SENUSVET III PHAROAH AMEMHAT

Whereafter new boundaries were formalized. Overtime, the Egyptian withdrew from Nubia and a native (Nubian) dynasty emerged under;

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PHAROAH PIYE

(25TH DYNASTY)

The new king expanded his kingdom to the far parameters of Memphis and

Libya. Pharoah Piye was then succeeded by the two sons who were called;

PHAROAH SEBITKU PHAROAH TAHARQA

Pharaoh Taharqa through expansionism created the largest empire which united both the North and South of Egypt, he was succedded by Pharoah Tanutamun.

Overtime and decades, the Nubian became Christians, subsequently converted to Islam and Arabization to this present day.

THE KINGDOM OF EGYPT

In the year(s) 3300 BC, Egypt was divided into two autonomous kingdoms which were called the;

UPPER KINGDOM

(TA – SHEMAU)

LOWER KINGDOM (TA – MEHU)

Around 3150 BC, the process of the unification of both kingdoms was initiated

by and thereafter the first ruler emerged being,

PHAROAH NARMER It is emphasized that out that at the end of fourth millennium, the dynastic

period began when Egypt was ruled by royalties and this period was called the;

PHAROAH DYNASTIES Over the epochs of time Egypt underwent changes politically and otherwise

which resulted in having the;

OLD KINGDOM

NEW KINGDOM MIDDLE KINGDOM

INTERMEDIATE PERIOD After the unification of Egypt the country underwent a great process of

urbanization, which process made her to emerge as a very rich and powerful kingdom. This New Kingdom covered huge areas including but not limited to the Kingdom of Nubia, Kingdom of Kush, Kingdom of Wawat, Somalia, Ethopia

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and Libya. The expansionism of Egypt resulted in her becoming an empire that also touched the regions of Asia. In the process thereof, she made tremendous

gains in the context of;

RESOURCE MINERALS AND OTHERWISE. AGRICULTURAL LAND(S). INTELLECTUAL CULTURE AND ADVANCEMENT.

Given her stature as an imperial power, Egyptians navigated the seas and visited other civilizations such as the;

MACEDONIAN PTOLEMICS.

HELENISTIC KINGDOMS. ROMAN EMPIRE.

On reverting to the issue of trade, Egypt conducted trade with the interior of Africa whereby she acquired exotic goods, animals, minerals, wood and slaves.

In this process of trade, Egypt used Nubia as the corridor with the Tropical Africa. It must be pointed out that the interaction between Egypt and Nubia went as far back as at the period of the Old Kingdom up to the Persian

Conquest of Egypt in 525 BC. Then Egypt subsequently effected a policy of formal imperial exploitation of the territories under her control and power, in particular Nubia. The Egyptians

expected annual tributes from the conquered territories, when these tributes were given to the Pharaoh at the Royal Court there would be celebration which

inter-alia included the;

TRIBUTE GAMES (COMPETITION)

which involved wrestling, archery and so on. In these games the Nubia champions participated. It be stated that the Egyptian recruited the best of

Nubian wrestlers and archers into the army, even made special elite forces out of them. It is through this elite incorporation into the military that the Nubia

ways of combat got introduced to up the sophistication of the Egyptian Martial Science. The Martial Science was long introduced in Egypt as pointed out below;

[H]Erodotus the father of Greek history categorically stated that, long

before REMESES II ruled both Egypt and Ethiopia perhaps as far as 8000 BC, boxing and wrestling was introduced to Egypt from Ethiopia. The martial science of Egypt was to a large and greater extent a derivative from

the Nubian martial arts of wrestling. Egyptians’ viewed martial art science with superb, sophistication definement and classified the martial combat of ancient Egypt and called it the;

AHA KEMET

(MARTIAL COMBAT OF ANCIENT EGYPT)

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Aha Kemet was a highly developed system and was categorized and designed as follows;

Aha Wesir – which contained maneuvers of all techniques of ancient

(Egypt). Aha Selesh – which was to push the opponent away in order to get

their weapon.

Aha Mentjw – which was used in urban environment and close quarter combat and disarming the defences of the opponent.

Aha Tahtib – which was the styles of stick fighting or weaponry.

The Nubian and Egyptian martial arts focused their spectrum of teachings and

training on the dynamics of;

MEDITATION.

CONCENTRATION. BREATHING.

CORRECT APPLICATION. This was crucial in order to unleash the inner power of the inner forces and

spirituality. The definements of these martial arts was constituted as following; KA: which means the vital force or energy of the soul, and also meaning the

body. RA: which means to keep awake or on watch.

TE: which means the hand. ABRIDGED SOURCE: JOHN GROMBACH –THE SAGA OF THE FIST – RS. BARNESS AND CO. PUBLISHING

It is obvious from the above definement that the original sense of the word

KARATE in the Egyptian language (kemetic) was the following,

[T]he way to Bring Forth and Draw out the Power or Essence of the Spirit. The ancient Nubians and Egyptians fundamentally knew and perfectly

understood that the spiritual body was much more powerful than the physical body with the ultimate outcome of true enlightenment. The outcome of training

this martial arts was the production of Egyptian warriors that were;

MOST EFFICIENT.

MOST FEARED. MOST BRUTAL. MOST DISCIPLINED.

This unique militaristic discipline caused that in the entire kingdom they

acquire great respect, tribute and fame. The Egyptian documented their martial art in the Papyri and was entitled the;

BOOK OF MARTIAL COMBAT

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(IN THE ANCIENCT EDFU TEMPLE)

The proposition advanced that Africa is the source of martial arts is acknowledged and confirmed by one of the greatest Grandmaster of modern Karate being;

SOSAI MASUTATSU OYAMA

[T]he oldest known records concerning combat techniques, hieroglyphic scrolls from Egypt tombs date as far back as 4000 year BC describing

military training fights similar to boxing (Ngumi) and wrestling (MKAZO NCHA SHIKANA). Making ancient Egypt (Kemet) the first record of martial arts in general and making martial art as a part of the Curriculum of the

Ancient Egypt Mysteries. ABRIDGED SOURCE: MASUTATSU OYAMA – ADVANCED KARATE –

PUBLISHED BY JAPAN PUBLICATION, TOKYO 1969.

It noted that Egypt became the epicenter of civilization, conducted international trade, conducted diplomatic ties with other nations such as in,

EUROPE ASIA

FAR EAST Thereby through these vibrant interrelationships and activities, the Egyptian

martial arts began to spread out into the world whereby speciation adaptation, additions and integration was done in order to meet the local needs and environment.

THE DECLINE OF THE EGYPTIAN EMPIRE

The Egyptian empire in its apex was ruled by many dynasties of Pharaohs and some of the greatest ones are mentioned below (without discounting others);

PHAROAH MENTUHOTEP II

PHAROAH INTEF I PHAROAH INTEF II PHAROAR SENUSRET III

PHAROAH HATSHEPSUT PHAROAH SNEFERU PHAROAH REMESSES I

PHAROAH REMESSES, THE GREAT II PHAROAH REMESSES III

PHAROAH KUFU PHAROAH KAMOSE PHAROAH AMENEMHART III

PHAROAH THUTMOSE III PHAROAH AMENHOTEP PHAROAH USERKAF

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PHAROAH SETI I PHAROAH PSAMTIK I

PHAROAH TUTANKHAMEN PHAROAH MENKAURA

PHAROAH TAHARQA PHAROAH CLEOPATRA

The Pharaoh(s) wielded an immense political, social, religious and cultural power and image. He was a demigod. Some of them commissioned the building of temples and pyramids. It is common cause that the greatest enemy to

civilization, empires and kingdoms its time. It is an axiomatic factor that every civilization or empire has its moment of troubles, downfall and extinction. One

such problem became the revolts, that took place in Nubia, and these revolts or uprisings caused that an army to be marched into Sudan under;

PHAROAH SESOSTRIS II

The uprisings were crashed and replaced with order. THE INVASION AND FALL OF EGYPT

Overtime the Egyptian Empire had to face a much more threat from the Persians. Then in 525 BC the Persian King Cambyses invaded and conquered

Egypt and he declared himself to be pharaoh under the name;

PHAROAH MESUTI-RE (ACHAEMENID EMPIRE)

And he ruled an empire called the;

ACHAEMENID EMPIRE

some of the successor to Mesuti-Re, Pharoah were;

DARIUS I, THE GREAT. ARTEXERXES I.

XERXES. DARIUS II. ARTAXERXES III.

In 332 BC, Pharoah Mazaces had an unfortunate position of having to confront

the Macedonian Armies, given the sizes and the might of these invaders under;

ALEXANDER THE GREAT.

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He surrendered and gave up Egypt to Alexander the Great. These developments were highly welcomed by native Egyptians and they considered Alexander the

Great to be a liberator, and also marked the end of the;

ACHAEMENID EMPIRE. Alexander the Great proceeded to found the great city of Alexandria. He then gave control of Egypt to his friend called Ptolemy as he went to Asia. When

news reach him (Ptolemy) that Alexander the Great was dead in Asia, he quickly proclaimed himself pharaoh and founded the;

PTOLEMAIC DYNASTY One is requested to view a visual material called,

ALEXANDER THE GREAT. The Ptolemaic Dynasty ruled Egypt for three hundred years. The last native

king to rule Egypt was;

PHAROAH NECTANEBO II At the apex of the Roman Empire, Egypt eventually became a Roman province

more pronouncedly during the reign of;

CLEOPATRA’S DYNASTY

Wherein the statesman of Rome, Julius Ceaser, Mark Anthony and many

others acted in the political and military landscape of Egypt. When the Roman Empire disintegrated and died, Egypt was then conquered and become a province of the;

BYZANTINE EMPIRE

On the recent times and note, the martial art of Capoeira was developed by the Africans during the;

TRANS ANTLANTIC SLAVE TRADE

(AFRICAN HOLOCAUST OF ENSLAVEMENT)

which saw many Africans being shipped to the America to become slaves. In the slave quarters the slaves created a rudimentary fighting style as a system

of fighting back against the cruel slave drivers. These Africa slaves would then be practicing their martial arts under the guise that it was a song, drum dance enterprice but in actual fact training one of the most dynamic martial arts

called;

CAPOEIRA The African slaves in other regions also developed their unique martial arts

such as;

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AFRICAN AMERICAN MARTIAL (YA OR KWA).

ASILIA AVITA SANAA. AFRICAN BRAZILIAN MARTIAL ART (CAPOEIRA).

AFRICAN-CUBA MARTIAL ARTS (MANI). AFRICAN HATIAN MARTIAL ARTS (PINGE). AFRICAN-JAMACAN MARTIAL ARTS (MACHETE).

Concerning the issues of enslavement in the America one is persuaded to watch the visual material of;

ROOTS

DJANGO UNCHAINED TWELVE YEARS A SLAVE ROSEWOOD MASSACRE

AMISTAD

It is quite clear from the synopsys herein that the African continent has contributed greatly in the birth and evolution of the martial arts, the very martial arts that got speciated overtime, the world entire. The contribution of

the African continent in various fields was in recent time aptly louded and affirmed as thus:

[A]frican descent people to American shores for many generations, black people like all diverse cultural people have contributed to the origins and

evolution of what has become the historical and mosaic American society. So why not consider and respect the homeland places where people of African descent came from and would have such profound influences in

building and transforming America in all areas of life; literature, cuisine, religion, business, education, politics, architecture, music, sciences, technology, you name it! Abridged Source: John H. Stanfield II, President of the Africans-

Americas- Exchange Partnerships and Former interim Distingushed Professor and Founding Director of the Mogae International Development and Governance Research Institute. Mmegi, Volume 32 No. 8 of Friday 16 January 2015: Musings Of A Post Cold War Pan Africanist In Botswana.

INDIA AND MARTIAL ARTS (3000BC) BEYOND: OVERVIEW

Martial arts in India is very antique and could be traced beyond 3000 BC as was practiced in different ages. In the present work, the synopsis is to make a

window that can facilitate the broader perspective and appreciation of martial arts. It is common cause that India has contributed greatly and significantly in the upsurge, spiral development and growth of martial arts in Asia. She is

regarded as the mother of the two important systems in the world which are:

BUDDHISM

BAREHANDED MARTIAL ARTS

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And these two systems impacted the entire world and civilizations. She is one of the oldest world civilizations that contributed much to mankind. Around

3000 BC, the Hindu Warrior Class practiced the martial art system called the Sanskirt for the maintenance of social order and military defences. Also to

protect the Hindu Royalist and the country from foreign invasions. Overtime the Sanskirt martial arts became complex and sophisticated, through

this transformation emerged the most powerful and dynamic system called:

KALARIPAYAT – KERELA

This was around the 4th century AD. The very system was infused with yoga

and further produced the complexity of body movements and techniques. It is within this period of the;

GUPTA EMPIRE (240 -480 AD)

That the Indian martial arts experienced their greatest heights of development and excellence, which also resulted in the final identification of the one

hundred and seven vital points on the human body. This was in the Sushruta Samhita. Subsequently, this knowledge was used in the medical discipline called;

AYURVEDA

And in every martial arts learning and institution. This teaching and training approach was very much common in the martial arts systems of;

VARMA KALAI

The significance of martial arts in India was enhanced when King Narasimhavarman during the;

PALLAVA DYNASTY

(630 AD)

Decreed that granite sculptures of warriors in unarmed combat be made throughout the kingdom, same depicting various martial arts such as the;

AGNI PURAMA

It has been averred that these systems were so advance in that, within its teachings the speciality in the muscular and nuerological science, which was termed Marma was integral, and provided the unique definements of the nodal

points of the human body that were also used in Indian Surgeries. At this juncture, the student(s) are persuaded to watch the visual material named;

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KUNGFU VS YOGA

In order to window the intrinsic sophistication, complexity and aesthetic nature of these Indian systems. The diversity of martial arts in India was prevalent,

numerous systems existed and herein below, some are windowed which are:

VAJRA MUSHTI

THANG –TA GATKA MEITEI

MUKNA MALLA – YUDDHA

INBUAN SILAMBAM VARMA ATI

KUTTU VARISAI SARIT SARAK

MUKTI YUDDHA PEHLWANI KALAPIPPAYATTU

AGNI PURAMA VERMA KALAI

When we take one of these systems being the;

AGNI PURAMA Its dissection reveals that the richness of the system contained the following

five dimensions:

YANTRA – MUKTA: which uses projectile weapons.

MUKTA – SANDHARITA: which use both hurling and

projectile weapons.

PAI – MUKTA: which uses hurling weapons.

HASTA – SASTRA: which uses swordship. BAHU – YUDDHA: use bare hands combat.

The aforesaid diversity within the style produced exceptional warrior students and scholars. It was common cause that, only the Brahmin were recognized

teachers of these martial arts. Around the 13th Century AD, the two great dynasties of;

CHERA DYNASTY CHOLA DYNASTY

Were engaged in prolonged warfare, and during these periods the styles of Verma Kalai and Kalaripayat were utilized intensively and these then caused

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the dynamic transformations within the context of the respective system. Thereby resulting in the emergence of the two powerful systems of martial arts

which were called;

KALARIPPAYATTU MALLA – YUDDHA

In the same vein, Northern India was invaded and conquered in 1526 -1857 AD by the Persians of Mongol descent and these were great experts and masters in their martial arts of wrestling and mounted archery. This period was

historically referred to as;

THE MOGHALS ERA During the era aforesaid, the Mongol masters and experts took the various

styles found in India which were the;

MALLA – YUDDHA AGNI PURAMA VARMA KALAI

Integrated them with their own version of martial arts. They ultimately produced one of the most dynamic martial arts system ever which was named;

PEHLWANI

Which system prevailed in popularity and best practice to this present day. For point of slight deviation, in 1804 the British Colonial Government banned

the martial arts system of Kalaripayat and others being one of the ways of controlling the riots and anti-colonialism activities.

THE INTEGRATION AND IMPACT OF ZEN BUDDHISM ON MARTIAL ARTS

Around the 6th century AD, Zen Buddhism was a very strong religion in India. It was followed by many of the Warrior Class groups who some were the monks. One such individual who was himself, a distinguished champion in

the martial arts of wrestling, swordplay, archery and marma was;

SIDDHARTHA GAUTAMA He was born a Prince of Kanchipura (483 AD) in Southern India, to the Royal

Sardilli Family. His half brother was called Prince Nanda. He was the third son of King Sugandha. Prince Siddhartha Gautama belonged to the special caste of the;

KSHATRIYA WARRIOR CASTE

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Latter on, he went to Madres for further education and training. This was in his preparation to take over the Kingship of his father. This was around 500

AD. However, at Madres an extraordinary development occurred to Siddhartha Gautama in that, he was exposed to the original teachings of Bhuddhist which

forever transformed his original adventure and life. Consequently, he forfeited his inheritance, princely position and became a monk.

He went to study with a Hindu teacher called Prajnatra, who specialize in Hindu religious teachings. He remained with his teacher Prajnatra, until the death of same. Overtime, Siddhartha Gautama became more gifted, wise

enlightened and more spiritually powered in the ways of Buddhism. The more he advanced, the more he was spiritually empowered and ultimately he gained

the enlightenment that caused him to become referred to as the;

DUDDHA DHARMA

After the death of his teacher, Buddha Dharma (Tamo) heard that China was

undergoing transformations in Buddhism but in a different way and form. Given this situation, he gave himself a personal mission to go to China and when in China he taught the authentic Buddhism.

It must be noted that India, China, Korea, Japan and Europe had long standing trade and political relations since ancient times. Thus it was not a

stranger thing that Buddha Dharma knew of same and had to go there as a personal mission. This relationship through trade and other matters was often

referred to as;

THE SILK ROAD

These relationship went far beyond the years of 600 BC wherein the;

DIPLOMATS, MERCHANTS,

MONKS, SCHOLARS, WARRIORS

Were interacting at highest levels. It was be pointed out that when one views

the martial arts in India, should do so with the understanding and or appreaciation that same was divided into two and according to the regions of the country. There was the martial arts which were classified as the;

NORTHERN MARTIAL ARTS: which systems of martial arts got

influence by social and cultural interaction with other nations thence

impacting on the context and diversity of martial arts therein. This was so because the Northern region was easily accessible because of the Silk

Road.

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SOUTHERN MARTIAL ARTS: Which were preserved intact because they

did not get exposed to the foreign influence, thence they remained medieval in their nature and context.

Wherefore, when the above spectrum is held in place it will make the appreciation of India’ martial arts more clearly and appropriately.

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CHAPTER FIVE

THE MARTIAL ARTS BEGINNINGS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

(BOTSWANA)

(THE FIRST EXPANSIONARY PERIOD, 1972-1979)

THE INITIATIVES OF ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGE (KGALE)

he St. Joseph’s College was founded in 1947 in the Gaborone

Administrative District, and it’s the oldest Catholic Mission School in

the country. The general position of the college administration was

conservative, despite this fact, the College produced exceptional students

academically and otherwise. The College was adequate in the context of extra-

mural activities which included,

WEIGHTLIFTING

BOXING

BALLROOM DANCE

SOFTBALL

NETBALL

SQUASH

ATHLETICS

FOOTBALL

MUSIC

TENNIS

However as regarding the martial arts of Karate, Kungfu, Judo and Jui Jutsu

there was absolutely none. In 1970-1972 St Joseph’s College had two

prominent martial artists who specialized in the systems of Kungfu and Jui-

Jutsu and these were;

SENSEI JOSEPH “BOSSY” SEKETE AND,

SENSEI CLEMENT MASE

each originating from Lobatse and Mahalapye respectively. They were not

permitted to teach these martial arts to anyone in the college because the

administration viewed same with disdain. Then they were joined by Sempai

Patrick ‘Solomzi’ Makgabenyana in 1972. The trio began to train and practiced

T

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in seclusion amongst themselves, and this very activity attracted the attention

and interest of other students in the college. Towards the end of 1972, a

sizeable number of students openly approach Sempai Makgabenyana for

instructions in martial arts and these then were taught secretly in the bush for

fear of the administration under Rev.Fr. John Corrighan. The students

concerned were:

SEMPAI LINCOLN MOLEFE

SEMPAI CEASAR MBUYA

SEMPAI KGABUNG SPEAR TLALE

SEMPAI NDUME MARIPE

SEMPAI WILLIAM PHOLOKO

SEMPAI RAPHAEL CHEPETE

SEMPAI CREASURE TLHONG

SEMPAI AUBREY PONO VAN

VUUREN

SEMPAI NYAKALE PILANE

SEMPAI EDGAR MOKGOSI

SEMPAI THOMAS FOX MOOKETSE

SEMPAI AUBREY MOLATLHWE

SEMPAI ZACHARIA GALEBOE

SEMPAI HANGERO KAPEKO

SEMPAI HERBERT MOLEFE

SEMPAI REBAONE KGOPO

SEMPAI JOHANNES TSUMAKE

SEMPAI BEAVER KUBOYATAU

SEMPAI PHILLIP MOEPENG

The above named became the founders of the St. Joseph’s Martial Arts School,

and overtime the membership increased dramatically to include:

SEMPAI RONALD MOGALAKWE

KHUMO.

SEMPAI MOAGI SENOMBE.

SEMPAI MICHAEL VAN WYK.

SEMPAI PATRICK MASOKWANE.

SEMPAI TITUS MABENA.

SEMPAI CONRAD MABEO.

SEMPAI VICTOR GUNDA.

SEMPAI MOTHUSI THONG.

SEMPAI WILLIAM MOSEKI.

SEMPAI THULAGANYO MOGOBE.

SEMPAI BUSHY LENLY HIRCHFELT.

SEMPAI SEJAMAFHOKO

MATHEATAU.

SEMPAI MICHAEL LEBOGANG

MOTLHABI.

SEMPAI OTLHABANE MASIRE.

SEMPAI LESEDI MATLHARE.

SEMPAI JOSEPH BONOLO.

SEMPAI KENETH TAU.

SEMPAI SEFAKO MOTSAMAI.

SEMPAI MOLEMOGENG PITSO.

SEMPAI ROBERT MOLEFABANGWE.

SEMPAI GILBERT SEKGOMA.

SEMPAI PELONTLE MPOTOKWANE.

SEMPAI JOSEPH DINTWE.

SEMPAI MICHAEL MASUNGA.

SEMPAI MATHEWS WIGGET.

SEMPAI PHILLIMON BROWN

MMOKELE.

SEMPAI DONALD SEBOKO.

SEMPAI TUMMIE MOTSUMI.

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SEMPAI JOSEPH THUPE

SEMPAI BUSHY MOLAYABATHO.

SEMPAI GAOLEBALE

MOTLHANKANA.

When Sempai Makgabenyana noted the large numbers under his

instructorship, he approached the principal of the college Rev. Fr. John

Corrighan for permission to use the school hall for training martial arts. The

principal refused and when the students were informed about the refusal to

use the hall they resolved to continue training in the bush, and at convenient

time in the weightlifting hall. The Boarding Master Mr. Tshepe who was from

Francistown, a former boxer who had worked in South Africa supported the

martial arts club and continued to persuade the principal but to no avail.

Then Rev. Fr. John Corrighan was transferred from the college, a new

headmaster took over being Rev. Fr. Arthur. The new Headmaster openly

embraced martial arts and he acceded to the representations of the St.

Joseph’s martial arts club. He gave them full use of the Hall for their training

and went on to secure some basic training equipments. Six weeks after the

relocation into the college hall, the martial arts club then conducted its first

martial arts demonstration in the school. This act won the appreciation of the

students and the teachers in the college. From this very point the club secured

the patronage of Mr. Patrick Mphakalatsi, a Lesotho National and teacher at St.

Joseph’s College. Other teachers who also supported the club were Mr.

Kgomotso Mogapi and Mr. Vincent Paulos.

The intensification of training and the support given to the club ensured that

the St Joseph’s College martial arts became strong, and eventually began to

engage itself with counterparts such as the;

GABORONE SECONDARY SCHOOL KARATE CLUB.

SEEPAPITSO SECONDARY SCHOOL KARATE CLUB.

MOEDING SECONDARY SCHOOL KARATE CLUB.

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which were under the directorship of the BLAKADO Karate Dojo of the

University of Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland-Gaborone Campus.

THE APOSTOLIC PERIOD OF MARTIAL ARTS (Botswana).

The martial arts activities were widespread and very much involved in that

Sensei Hussain Gatogang Pandor, Sensei Vusimuzi Ndlovu, Sensei James

Thorne, Sensei Fish Tuelo Masilo, Sensei Daniel Moncho and Sensei Shiellar

Mothofela were all over the country teaching the young aspirants martial arts,

with the point of establishing clubs and followership. This was follow up to the

efforts of BLAKADO Karate School (UBLS) which was well established in the

Gaborone Secondary School, Moeding College and Seepapitso Secondary

School. In the same measure, Sempai Makgabenyana extended his teachings to

other Secondary Schools such as;

KGARI SECHELE SECONDARY SCHOOL, UNDER SEMPAI

MAKANA TIZZA TYIBILIKA AND SEMPAI CARTHAGE

MOTLHABANE SORINYANE.

MOLEFI SECONDARY SCHOOL, UNDER SEMPAI LEBEOUS

PELOEWETSE, SEMPAI PHINDA KEEBINE AND SEMAPI GARVIN

MOREBODI.

SHASHE RIVER SECONDARY SCHOOL, UNDER SEMPAI SHARIFF

JOSEPH PANDOR AND SEMPAI MOSES SEEPA.

Eventually, a network of cross tournaments among the secondary schools

emerged and got sustained for many years thereafter. This then resulted in the

annual event known as the Inter Secondary Schools All Karate Championship

during the 1980-1990 decade. This period of intensed interaction was amongst

the students romanticized as the apostolic period because each martial arts

school (club) was under the urge of winning many followers to its system of

martial arts.

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THE MOEDING COLLEGE AND SEEPAPITSO SECONDARY SCHOOL (1970 -

1980)

The Moeding College was founded in 1962 by the UCCSA Mission, and it is

situated in Otse village. The College is now a neighbour to the Botswana’s

International Police Academy which is at Mogobane. In complete contrast to St

Joseph’s College, the Moeding College martial arts club did not experience

negativity from the administration. The college was then under the Headship of

Rev.Fr. Maltus Smith. From the onset Rev. Fr Smith supported the

introduction of martial arts which was made under the patronage of the

teacher named Mr Cox.

Given this dispensation, the Moeding College Martial Arts Club prospered in

many ways and got assistance from the BLAKADO Karate Dojo through the

individuals such as;

THABO FAKO SENSEI.

SKIPPER KESUPILE SENSEI.

KOOS CHAKA SENSEI.

TEFO MOKAILA SENSEI.

SPUNA KESUPILE SENSEI.

LOUIS FISCHER SENSEI.

SAKIE LOW SENSEI.

MAGANA CHAUKA SENSEI.

This was possible and tangible because the Moeding College was the satelite of

the BLAKADO Karate Dojo. The consequence of this technical support caused

that the Moeding College become a powerful force to contend with in the

Secondary Schools martial arts contests. She was seconded by the Seepapitso

Secondary School which was under the guidance of;

SENSEI MAGANA CHAUKA

SENSEI CHICKEN KUKU KESUPILE

SENSEI ABRAM SPUNA KESUPILE

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The Seepapitso Secondary School was founded in 1950 and likewise, she was

the BLAKADO Karate Dojo satellite. Reverting to Moeding College, the college

ultimately produced distinguished exponents who were;

ANTHONY SIBIYA SENSEI.

SYLVESTER DIFAKO SELEKA

SENSEI.

SEBOTSO MOLEFE SENSEI.

LETA LOKWALO MOSIENYANE

SENSEI.

TIKOLOGO OLEHILE SENSEI.

EMMANUEL SEBOKONE SENSEI.

CARLMOND MOGALAKWE SENSEI.

MOSIENYANE MOSIENYANE SENSEI.

The Moeding College, Seepapitso Secondary School and Gaborone Secondary

School were doing the Shukokai Karate Do. The Gaborone Secondary School

was dualistic in martial arts in that some persued the Shukokai Karate Do and

Jeet Kune Do. Those in Jeet Kune Do were exponents such as;

SENSEI JOHN SETILO.

SENSEI TOM TLADI.

SENSEI NATHAN KGABI.

And their martial arts instructor was Kyoshi James Thorne who was a 7th Dan

Black Belt at the time.

THE PROLIFERATION OF MARTIAL ARTS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

The martial arts entered many secondary schools in the 1980 decade. The

driving forces behind these developments was the fact that students were

changing schools, especially after the completion of their Junior Certificate.

Secondly, due to the inter-secondary schools martial arts tournaments. The

overall impact and output was the fact that martial arts was now found in

many of these schools:

SHASHE RIVER SCHOOL.

MATER SPEI COLLEGE.

SELEBI PHIKWE SECONDARY

SCHOOL.

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TUTUME MC CONNELL’S COLLEGE.

FRANCISTOWN SENIOR SECONDARY

SCHOOL.

MADIBA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

LOTSANE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

LOTLHAKANE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

SWANENG HILL SCHOOL.

MASUNGA SENIOR SECONDARY

SCHOOL.

MAUN SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MACHA SENIOR SECONDARY

SCHOOL.

KGARI SECHELE SECONDARY

SCHOOL.

MOLEFHI SECONDARY SCHOOL.

LOBATSE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

KAGISO SECONDARY SCHOOL.

NALEDI SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MOSHUPA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

GANTSI SECONDARY SCHOOL.

Therefore, the ultimate meaning of these developments was that martial arts

was now well rooted and established in the country. Thus giving credence to

the fact that the Secondary Schools in Botswana actually became the cradle of

martial arts. It is note worthy to mention that, many special individuals

contributed greatly in the effective rooting and development of martial arts in

the Secondary Schools in Botswana. Some of these are mentioned in

acknowledgement of the huge effort and sacrifices that they have made towards

the very process;

SENSEI TOM TLADI.

SENSEI JOHN SETILO.

SENSEI LESEGO BARUTI.

SENSEI NATHAN KGABI.

SENSEI THABO FAKO.

SENSEI SOPHISTO

NTHOBATSANG.

SENSEI JACKY PHUREGO.

SENSEI SPUNA KESUPILE.

SENSEI RAYMOND NYONI.

SENSEI SKIPPER KESUPILE.

SENSEI MARTIN TSHUKUDU.

SENSEI JOSEPH SHARIFF

PANDOR.

SENSEI TEFO MOKAILA.

SENSEI PHINDA KEEBINE.

SENSEI NUNU LESETEDI

SENSEI GARVIN MOREBODI.

SENSEI LEBBEOUS

PELOEWETSE.

SENSEI MAGANA CHAUKA.

SENSEI RON CHAUKA.

SENSEI CHIPPO GAOBAKWE.

SENSEI SYLVESTER SELEKA.

SENSEI MARX NGWAKO.

SENSEI LETA L. MOSIENYANE.

SENSEI PATRICK MOKULA.

SENSEI MARX MOPHUTING.

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SENSEI PERCIVAL M.

MTHETHWA.

SENSEI MOTHUSI TLHONG.

SENSEI THABO KEREKANG.

SENSEI TIZZAR M. TYIBILIKA.

SENSEI MADALA MPALE.

SENSEI LOUIS FISHER.

SENSEI THAPELO GATOGANG.

SENSEI MOSALA MOSALA.

SENSEI MMOSHE MOOKODI.

SENSEI PHILLIP TSUMAKE.

SENSEI JOSEPH PATLO.

SENSEI PEPE SCREW

MOSIMANEGAPE.

SENSEI EDMOND MOYO.

SENSEI MICHAEL LEBOGANG

MOTLHABI.

SENSEI REEVES LESIGE.

SENSEI SAMUEL RAMAEBA.

SENSEI ALEC TIRO.

SENSEI ALBERT

KGENGWENYANE.

SENSEI EDMUND DLADLA.

SENSEI MONTY MOKETSANE.

SENSEI SIMON TLHONG.

SENSEI CREASURE TLHONG.

SENSEI COLLIN NYATSHANE.

and many more. The above is intended to be a window of the outstanding

contributions of martial artist of the past.

THE PRIMARY SCHOOLS AND MARTIAL ARTS.

On the different note, martial arts in the Primary Schools in Botswana is not

well established and prevalent. However is it found in the English Medium

Schools. In the Government Schools (Primary Schools) it is not found save that

some pupils have the advantage of parents and or relatives who do sponsor

them to martial arts dojos. This deficit is chronic in the remote parts of the

country than in the city areas. However, the Oikado Martial Arts School,

Strategic Committee developed the concept and programme aimed at out-

reaching and assisting the remote areas with the implementation of martial

arts discipline in the primary schools. This initiative was prompted by the

research findings which pointed out the following;

The majority of the Batswana Primary School going children do love

the Martial Arts but do not have access to the books, coaches and

formal dojo’s and finally cannot afford fees for expert’s attention.

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The Primary Schools are the reservoirs and resources of raw

materials for future Martial Artists, and this resource is unexploited

for the optimum benefit of Martial Arts fraternity.

The cycle between the Secondary Schools, Tertiary and Primary

Schools must be completed in order to achieve a holistic national

framework of Martial Arts development for the country’s citizens and

future.

That the Oikado Senior students should be resourced to conduct

preliminary coaching clinics that can cultivate better ground for

further development, and that the Primary School Teachers inclined

towards Martial Arts be motivated and resourced with technical and

administrative skills inorder to gain effective potential, capacity and

viability in the schools.

It must however, be pointed out that the major constraints are the lack of

financial resources to the Oikado Martial Arts School, as thus the programmes

are self sponsored. In that there is no financial assistance from the

Government and or the Botswana National Sports Council. Above all, it is now

incumbent on the Botswana Primary Schools Sports Association (BOPSSA) to

motivate and advocate for the full introduction of martial arts in their schools.

THE SECONDARY SCHOOLS HOSTING THE KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

The All Secondary Schools Karate Championships had been hosted by several

Secondary Schools in the 1980-1999 decade. They are mentioned below as a

special tribute for their dedication in martial arts. These schools are:

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MOEDING COLLEGE.

ST. JOSEPHS COLLEGE.

NALEDI SEC SCHOOL.

MOSHUPA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

SELEBI PHIKWE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MASUNGA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

SHASHE R. SECONDARY SCHOOL.

GABORONE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

KGARI SECHELE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MOLEFI SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MADIBA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

FRANCISTOWN SECONDARY SCHOOL.

LOBATSE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MC CONNELL’S COLLEGE.

SEEPAPITSO SECONDARY SCHOOL.

Furthermore, it is important to mention that in all these occasions the

participants and spectators were most satisfied about the management and

quality of the events. However on the side note, the following must be pointed

out;

The leaders of the Secondary Schools Martial Arts Clubs were

ordinary students in the and were from the big clubs such as:

BLAKADO KARATE DOJO.

SAILONG KUNGFU SCHOOL.

TSOSAMOTSE KARATE DOJO.

SHUKOKAI DRAGON DOJO.

SHOTOKAN KARATE DOJO.

FUKAYAMA KUNG FU SCHOOL.

OIKADO MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL.

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That through these Secondary Schools Martial Arts Clubs, the culture of

martial arts began to spread, to be acknowledged and pervacive in

Botswana.

That all these clubs initially were not welcomed by the Administration of

their Schools (save a few). Consequently, they were never afforded the

opportunity of having basic training equipments. Thus the students

pooled their resources, efforts and forged ahead. However the exception

existed among the teachers who strongly gave support to these embronic

Clubs.

That all the schools concerned, concerted with each other, forged an

interactive strategy, planning and sharing of their technical knowledge

and strategies in order to overcome their inherent problems.

That the students who ultimate qualified at Tertiary and University levels

as teachers came back into these Secondary Schools, and thereat

improved and advanced the cause of martial arts in the secondary

schools in Botswana.

On the finer note, it must be pointed out that the BLAKADO Karate Dojo,

Sensei Gatogang Hussain Pandor, Sensei Fish Masilo, Sensei Vuzimuzi Ndlovu,

Sensei James Thorne, Sensei Daniel Moncho, Sensei Sheillar Mothofela they

cultivated, grounded and uplifted martial arts in Botswana consequently no

one can lay any better claim to this historic fact and reality, than them.

Through their audacity, hard work and sacrifices martial arts entered the 1980

decade with a profound drive and vision. Given this validation and

dispensation no single individual can ever lay a better claim to these

achievements and developments than these men, whatsoever.

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THE BOTSWANA’S FIRST NATIONAL ALL STYLES KARATE

CHAMPIONSHIPS (1978).

In October 1978, the BLAKADO Martial Arts School through the efforts of

prominent individuals such as, Sensei Thabo Fako, Sensei Tefo Mokaila, Sensei

Simon Seisa and Sensei Spuna Abram Kesupile caused that the Botswana’s

First All Styles Martial Arts National Tournament be held at Gaborone. This

tournament was referred to as The All Styles National Karate Tournament,

which was hosted in the University of Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland-

Gaborone Campus, and the Clubs that participated were the following:

BLAKADO KARATE SCHOOL.

THE TSOSAMOTSE KARATE SCHOOL.

THE SAILONG KUNG FU SCHOOL.

THE DRAGON SHUKOKAI SCHOOL.

THE SHOTOKAN KARATE SCHOOL (LOBATSE/GABORONE).

THE FUKUYAMA KUNG FU SCHOOL (LOBATSE).

This event was the first ever to be held in Botswana, and it proved to have been

a great success in terms of crowd attendance, technical functions and

experience to all the Martial Artists involved. Ever since this time, no School of

Martial Arts to date has ever called for a similar tournament in Botswana. It

was during this occasion that the organizers of the event and the instructors

present namely;

SENSEI FISH TUELO MASILO.

KYOSHI JAMES THORNE.

SENSEI HUSSAIN PANDOR.

SENSEI VUSIMUZI NDLOVU.

SENSEI PATRICK MAKGABENYANA.

SENSEI MOSIMANEGAPE MOTHOFELA.

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convened a special meeting and deliberated on the aspect of creating an

umbrella organization that was to cater and make provisions for all Martial

Arts Styles and Schools in Botswana in the context of a National Organization

or Association. Thereon, to facilitate the occurrence of similar events in the

future in Botswana.

Pursuant to the above occasion and thereafter, several meetings were proposed

at inter club levels in order to further the objective of formation and

mechanism of the association but these couldn’t materialize. In this regard, the

concept was put at abeyance. However, in 1982, the remaining Martial Artists

adopted the concept, carried the action forward and consequently came up

with the formation of the Botswana Karate Association (BOKA) 1982.

THE STATUS OF FUKAYAMA KUNG FU SCHOOL (1975-1987).

The Fukayama Kung Fu School had graded many students in Martial Arts

through the advent participation of Sensei Hussain Pandor, Sensei Vusimuzi

Ndlovu, Kyoshi James Thorne and Sensei Fish Masilo and of those graded

were;

CARTHAGE MOTLHABANE SORINYANA.

GARVIN MOREBODI.

MAKANA TIZZAR TYIBILIKA.

SHARIFF JOSEPH PANDOR.

SIOUX KGOMETHA MOTLALEKGOSI

THULAGANYO MOGOBE.

MOSES SEBINA.

JACOB RALERU.

ALBERT KGENGWENYANA.

ZICKY SELETLHO.

RICHARD PHELEFU.

DOMINIC MAKGABENYANA.

STEPHEN SEBINA.

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TIMOTHY NGWENYA.

MANGY LOABILE.

MAC’ DONALD SEBINA.

GECKO KOLE MOLEFI.

PHINDA KEEBINE.

THABO KEREKANG.

SUZAN PENA KOLE.

OLBEN THOBEGA.

OTLHABANE MASIRE.

SHADRACK KGOSIEMANG.

CATHERINA MADUO MONGALA.

MONTY MOOKETSANE.

REEVES LESIGE.

SAMUEL RAMAEBA.

RAYMOND MATSAKE.

CHRISTINUS RAMULA.

MOTLHABI MICHAEL.

ELIAS NKALA.

ARTHUR MOGALE.

GILBERT MORERI.

EDWARD KEBARENG.

Some of these individuals went to the University of Botswana and established

their own section of Kung Fu School under the auspices of Fukuyana Kung Fu

School. The result of this move was the fact that Fukayama Kung Fu School

eventually acquired a stronghold in the University of Botswana. The individuals

who were fully charged with this exercise were;

SENSEI PHINDA KEEBINE.

SENSEI LEBBEOUS PELOEWETSE.

SENSEI GARVIN MOREBODI.

SENSEI MONTY MOOKETSANA.

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Sensei Peloewetse subsequently joined the sporting code of Softball, he

ultimately proved and acquired the stature of being the Botswana’s Best

Softball Pitcher. It is in this context that, when Sensei Patrick Makgabenyana

rejoined the University of Botswana, he consolidated this school and other

students and thereafter formerly introduced and established the Oikiru Ryu

Karate Jitsu Do (Oikado) Martial Arts System and School (1987). However,

some students continued to provide technical support to the Karate Clubs in

the Secondary Schools in Botswana, and thus propagated the fundamentals of

Oikado martial arts nationwide.

The Fukayama Kung Fu School had enjoyed, experienced the presence and

participation of exceptional Martial Arts Instructors since (1976) and some of

these were:

SENSEI CLYFFE MOLEFE FROM KGRUGERSDORP

(LEEUPARDSVLEI) SOUTH AFRICA (SHOTOKAN),

SENSEI CHARLES MTHOMBENI FROM ORLANDO (SOWETO)

SOUTH AFRICA (SHOTOKAN),

SENSEI HENRY MABOE (MAMELODI) SOUTH AFRICA

(KYOKUSHINKAI),

and these Martial Artists transformed the capacity of the School and made

Fukayama Kung Fu School to be one of the best and strongest martial arts

school in Southern Botswana . This status, correspondingly caused the said

school to have branches in Serowe, Francistown, Palapye, Gaborone, Mochudi,

Molepolole and Kanye. It is on this trend of expansion that the Fukayama Kung

Fu School increased in membership even after its conversion into the Oikado

Martial Arts School.

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The Fukayama Kung Fu School had the tradition of communion which is

basically an annual event whereby all the students and the instructors

assembled under one roof. Through this assemblage the students knew each

other, technical skills were exchanged, grading and tournaments were done.

This proved very successful and beneficial to all the concerned in this activity.

This tradition was introduced in 1976 and had been continued by the

succeeding instructors and students alike at different venues in the country

and when resources permitting.

However in the course of time, the School then experience the departures of

Sensei Clyffe Molefe for West German and that of Sensei Charles Mthombeni,

and Sensei Makgabenyana for Swaziland, and later to Kwa Zulu-Natal in South

Africa. Consequently the Fukayama Kung Fu School remained under the

principal stewardship of;

SENSEI FISH TUELO MASILO.

SENSEI ALBERT KGENGWENYANE.

SENSEI MOSIMANEGAPE SHEILLAR MOTHOFELA.

SENSEI THABO KEREKANG.

SENSEI GECKO MOLEFE KOLE.

SENSEI ALEC TIRO.

Many years thereafter, Sensei Mthombeni and Sensei Molefe returned overseas

and relocated in South Africa (1994).

It must be pointed out that, in 1979 Sensei Vusimuzi Ndlovu also left

Botswana for Nigeria and later on passed away in Zimbabwe. Kyoshi James

Thorne also returned to South Africa whereon he subsequently passed away.

The effort and diligent contributions of Sensei Phinda Keebine, Sensei

Lebbeous Peloewetse, Sensei Reeves Lesige (Late) Sensei Albert Kgengwenyane,

Sensei Samuel Ramaeba, Sensei Alec Tiro, Sensei Makana Tyibilika and Sensei

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Thabo Kerekang made the Fukanyama Kung Fu School to flourish significantly

and with vibrancy for many years.

THE PUBLIC AWARENESS ABOUT MARTIAL ARTS (1973-1979)

The public at large was being made aware about Martial Arts through several

means and approaches which included public demonstrations. One such

demonstrations was held in Mochudi Civic Hall near Molefi Senior Secondary

School (1979), by the Fukayama Kung Fu School, whereby the occasion was

graced by the presence and acknowledgement of Paramount Chief Lentswe II of

the Bakgatla people. On the other hand, the BLAKADO Karate Club made

publications in the Kutlwano Magazine. On similar note, the Shihon Dragon

Magazine of Durban, South Africa (1975) made an international story about the

efforts of Sensei Makgabenyana and was captioned as Botswana Goes Karate.

Thus adding an international dimension to the local Martial Arts because this

very magazine was of international circulation.

One must also point out this, the movies of the late Grandmaster Bruce Lee

such as the Enter the Dragon, The Big Boss. The Green Hornet, The Fist of

Furry, The Game of Death, and also The Eighteen Bronzemen (Shaolin Temple)

contributed greatly by increasing and sharpened the public awareness and

defined some acceptable enthusiasm of Martial Arts in Botswana.

THE WUSHU TEAM FROM THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (1976)

However, the most historical and direct experience of the Martial Arts in

Botswana occurred in 1976 when Botswana celebrated her 10th Anniversary of

Independence. During this period, our then President Sir. Seretse Khama

welcomed The People’s Republic of China Wushu Team (Squad) which gave

Batswana the first hand experience of Wushu Martial Arts. When the Chinese

Wushu Martial Arts Squad performed in Gaborone, Lobatse and other centres

in Botswana, many were exposed to the first hand quality of the Chinese

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Martial Arts, as a result the household name became that of Masuping. These

events and others not mentioned herein, ultimately sharpened the public

awareness and attention about the Martial Arts in Botswana. However, one

must point out that, this diplomatic relationship between Botswana and the

People Republic of China which commenced as far back as 1975, became a

definite precursor for the future international cooperation between these two

countries in decade yet to come.

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CHAPTER SIX

CHINA AND MARTIAL ARTS

(527 AD)

THE BUDDHA DHARMA IN CHINA (527 AD): OVERVIEW

n arrival in China, Buddha Dharma went to live in the capital city of

Liang which was in the Canton Province. He met with;

EMPEROR LIANG WU

(During the Liang Dynasty) after some years the two parted company on

grounds that they drastically differed in the theories of Buddhism. There was a

great difference between the;

EMPERORS BUDDHIST THEORY AND

BUDDHA DHARMA BUDDHIST THEORY

and these had ensued from 502-550AD. The Buddha, (Tamo) left the capital

Liang for Human Province. Human Province was the home of the;

SHAOLIN TEMPLE OF SONGSHAN.

When he got admitted into the Shaolin Temple he observed that the practicing

monks were meditating for long periods, and this caused them to be physically

weak due to prolonged meditation. He then complemented this meditation with

vigorous physical training activity from this training regiment he introduced

the Indian physical training system which he named the;

EIGHTEEN HANDS OF THE ENLIGHTENED MAN.

O

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He further combined all these with the unique method of meditation which was

called;

CHAN

and the Japanese subsequently called it Zen. When he realized that the monks

were transformed he then showed them how to translate these techniques into

combat. Thence the;

DHARMA MUSHTI SYSTEM

Of fighting was born for the monks. The translation of the above was as

thus;

DAHRMA MEANT THE TRUTH OF BUDDHISM

MUSHTI MEANT THE FIST

In the Chinese context the above translated into HO (DHARMA) and Chuan

(Mushti) Thus the new arts of the monks was named the;

CHUAN FA KUNG FU

Therefore Chuan Fa Kung Fu meant on broader context the Law of the First.

The above process went on to the extent that the animals fighting methods

were studied, then incorporated and coded into the scientific fighting systems

of;

THE DRAGON.

THE PHOENIX.

THE TIGER.

THE EAGLE.

THE CRANE.

THE SNAKE.

THE MANTIS.

THE HORSE

And so on. The refinement of these fighting systems eventually became the

most owerful and complex, sophisticated fight method ever produced that

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catapulted the monks to great reputations and respected in China and Asia as

a whole.

This then marked the genesis of the famous martial arts of the;

SHAOLIN KUNG FU

Inside the Shaolin temples the monks and the nuns were concentrated on the

refinement and various aspects of martial arts in the context of being;

PHILOSOPHICALLY.

SCIENTIFICALLY.

TECHNICALLY.

Practically and as such these system became distinctly Shaolin.

Consequently, the monks and nuns in the Shaolin Temple were able to defend

their fort against any attacks, and even some emperors acknowledged them

and sought their support whenever it was necessary. It is out of these intra-

transformations in the Shaolin Temple’s that the new breed of monks emerged

and these were classified as the;

FIGHTING MONKS OF THE SHAOLIN TEMPLE.

These were of great distinction and mostly revered to the extent that they were

often sourced for political and military purposes, when and if necessary. They

also went as far as Korea, Japan and Asia as a whole teaching same.

THE SHAOLIN TEMPLES AND OTHER COUNTRIES

In this period China was a great nation and power, it had allies such as Korea,

Japan, Okinawa and others in Asia. Trade, Education, Cultural exchange and

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other vital activities were ongoing amongst these nations. Buddhism was all

over and the Shaolin monks were highly sought after, revered and were pivotal

in the spread of Shaolin fighting system. Many Koreans, Japanese and

Okinawa’s came to study same in the various Shaolin Temples in China. After

gaining these vital skills and knowledge, they would go back to their homes

(countries) redefine, improve and incorporate local techniques thus coming up

with different but related versions of fighting arts. Conversely, martial arts

Kung Fu became translated into local version styles or languages as following;

THE OIKINAWANS AND THE JAPANESE TRANSLATED

SAME INTO KENPO. THUS MEANING THE SAME THING.

Another dimension that caused the spread of Shaolin Kung Fu was the role of

Buddhist priests who went to Korea, Japan, Oikinawa and in the cause of time

they imparted the fighting skills to the locals who were worthy of this

knowledge. This was prominent during the periods of political strife in China.

For the record, it must be pointed out that long before the arrival of Buddha

Dharma in China, from India, China had its martial arts systems which went

as far back as in the Neolithic Period, during the era of the Yellow Emperor.

What then DAMO (Buddha Dharma) did was to act as a catalyst towards the

invigoration, transformation and spreading of these ancient fighting systems.

On a different note, it is important to show that, the Shaolin Temples were not

entirely combat schools but rather a community based institution that which

provided various sciences in the areas of Painting, Music, Art, Medicine,

Writing, Pottery, Agriculture, Cooking, Shelter, Education, Philosophy,

Artisanship, Maths, History and so on. It was a special community composed

of Abbots, Monks, Nuns, Grandmasters, Masters, Desciples, Students and

Ordinary people. It had rules, regulations and laws that held it more intact and

systemically organized.

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THE ANCIENT MARTIAL ARTS STATUS IN CHINA (221-210 BC)

Martial Arts in China had existed as far back as in the Neolithic period during

the era of the great;

YELLOW EMPEROR CH’IN SHIH HUANG TI

The first emperor of China, who unified the Kingdoms and built the Great Wall

of China. This was about five thousand years ago before the arrival of Buddha

Dharma in China. In order to conserve the full details, a short chronology of

dynasty’s that were congruently involved with the martial arts development and

growth over the various ages are below mentioned;

THE SHANG DYNASTY (1523-1027 BC)

THE CHOU DYNASTY (1027- 256 BC)

THE CHOU DYNASTY (770-221 BC)

THE MING DYNASTY (1368-1644 AD)

In the above list one is compelled to add the era of the great teachers and

philosophers who were:

CONFUCIOUS AND SUN TSU (500 BC)

SHAOLIN ORDER (540 BC)

The above window is considered sufficing to validate the fact that China, our

Land, has a very long history on the science of Martial Arts and of great

significance is to mention the great;

EMPEROR XIO WEN (495 BC)

Who built the 1st Shaolin Temple in Shing Shan Mountains. This development

became the watershed that integrated Martial Arts and Buddhism. This then

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caused a new dimension of spiritual activity in Martial Arts. Thereby

propounding Martial Arts as a science of which impacts immensely on the

dimensions of

BODY

MIND

SPIRIT

This very approach was inherited and adopted by all the Martial Arts systems

found in Korea, Japan, Oikinawa and the world entire to this present day. The

premise for adopting the triad dimension of Martial Arts was grounded on the

fact that, one must through Martial Arts attain the highest and greatest heights

and dimension of human development, hence the found foundation of the

fundamental ideals of Martial Arts.

After the first Shaolin Temple was built, other provinces followed suit such as

in the;

KWANTUNG PROVINCE

WUTANG PROVINCE

FUKIEN PROVINCE

HENAN PROVINCE

OMEI SHAN PROVINCE

It is imperative to point out that whenever these institutions are discussed, it

must be noted that they attracted many scholars and practitioners in their

rank from Korea, Japan, Okinawa. These then after their study duration ended

they would return to their indigenous homelands, whereat they would integrate

the acquired knowledge and skills with indigenous ones. On the side note, the

students and the readers are persuaded to watch the visual material named.

THE EIGHTEEN BRONZEMEN

THE SHAOLIN TEMPLE

THE 36TH CHAMBER OF SHAOLIN

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THE FIVE FINGERS OF DEATH

MARCO POLO

In order to acquire gainful insights about some of the Shaolin Temple activities

and immensity (Depicting the saga of Shaolin Temples). The long and short of it

is this, the Shaolin Temples were the great institution of par excellence in

education and Martial Arts thence the reasons that many Japanese, Koreans

and Okinawa’s had to travel to China for their Martial Arts knowledge and

training.

THE SHAOLIN MARTIAL ARTS AND THE OFF SHOOT SYSTEMS.

The study of Martial Arts in the Shaolin Temples entailed two significant

dimensions which were;

THE TRAINING OF TECHNIQUES AND SKILLS

THE STUDY OF THE TEACHINGS AND

PHILOSOPHY

and these were mandatory. They were the essential components of the law of

the fist which was known as;

CHUAN/KENPO

Consequently, all those who had come to study in China were exposed to this

integral training and went back in that context. It is through to this specialized

education and training that overtime new systems emerged as the offshoots of

Shaolin training namely;

Karate, Ju Jutsu, Kendo, Judo, Ninjutsu and others, as they were products of

adaptation and various modifications in order to meet the indigenous needs

and environment. This then extended to the creations of Shatoryn, Seidokan,

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Sankukai, Shukokai, Seidokan, Kyokushinkai which were extended forms of

adaptation and speciation in the 1940 Decade.

On the political note and dimension, many Chinese ex-patriots fled from China

due to political reasons and they settled in places such as Japan, Korea,

Okinawa (Ryukyu Islands). Thereafter, they began imparting their knowledge to

the locals who then incorporated same with indegeneous knowledge and skill

to form new system of martial arts. A case in point was that of;

GRANDMASTER KASANKU

GRANDMASTER CHEN YUAN YUN

GRANDMASTER HSING-YI-TODE AND,

GRANDMASTER TUNG GEE HSING

Who taught many Okinawa’s martial arts and those who were distinct were;

GRANDMASTER ANKO AZTO

GRANDMASTER GICHIN FUKANOSHI

GRANDMASTER ANKO ITOSU

The ex-patriots who came to these new places were composed of exceptional

individuals who were;

Scholars, Teachers, Doctors, Artisans, Warriors, Monks, Philosophers, Traders

and some were exceptional geniuses of martial arts. Many of them settled in

various places such as the provinces of Ise and Kii which were on the outside

(South) of the capital NARA. On the overall, the indigenous people benefited

from the presence of these arrivals, who imparted a great deal of knowledge

and wisdom. The very wisdom that was made up of the sources and

contributions of the Shaolin Temple and,

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India, China, Tibet, Mongolia, Korea, Eastern Europe and South East

Asia.

THE CODIFICATION AND SCIENTIFICATION OF MARTIAL ARTS IN CHINA

(512 BC)

On a different dimension, in 512 BC General Sun Wu (Commonly known Sun

Tsu) wrote a comprehensive and scientific warfare book on the strategy of

warfare. This was known as Bing Fa (Commonly known as: The Art of War).

The main thrust of this study was to stress the vital components of training,

strategy and study in the martial arts.

This book expounded the triad dimension and context of warfare and martial

arts as,

INTELLECTUALLY

PHYSICALLY

SPIRITUALLY

As a dynamic and comprehensive activity. The knowledge of Bing Fa was kept

very secret and was passed almost secretly by ways of martial arts from

disciples. Until recently, this knowledge has been made available to the serious

students of martial arts and one of the greatest teachers of this knowledge in

modern times is Grandmaster Gary Gagliard. In 133BC, a special decree was

issued in China by;

EMPEROR WU

Of the Han Dynasty to the effect that martial arts must be vigorously studied

and spread throughout the entire kingdom of China. The basis for this was to

make martial arts a speciality of sword and barehanded technique.

The impact of this decree spread on the allies of China at the time being;

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Japan and Korea and other nations in Asia.

This decree became instrumental in the spread of Chinese martial arts beyond

her borders in Asia. These countries were thus able to benefit in the context of

knowledge and ultimately to transform their indegeneous fighting arts.

THE KINGDOMS OF KOREA

(50 BC)

At this time, Korea was made up of kingdoms, and she had her own indigenous

martial arts which dated as far back from 50BC. This indigenous martial arts

were not immune from the influence and impacts of Chinese martial arts and

Buddhism. The kingdoms were structured along these lines;

THE KOGORYO KINGDOM (37BC-668 AD)

THE PACKJE KINGDOM (18BC-600AD)

THE SILLA KINGDOM (57 BC-935 AD)

The vital and golden thread that went through these kingdoms was the

following;

The kingdoms were well organized with advanced military organs and

organization.

The kingdoms were totally committed to the study and practice of

martial arts which was known as;

TAE KYON

Overtime a new form of Martial Arts emerged; this had great impact and

transformation on philosophy that being;

HWA RANG DO

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The peculiarity about this martial art system was that it was exclusively for the

elite class and it contained a special code of honour. Though it be so, in 936

AD the Kyoro Dynasty (Kogu Ryo) was founded by;

EMPEROR WANG KEN

It was from this dynasty that the name of Korea was coined or emerged to the

present day. Among other things gained from this dynasty was the founding of

a new martial arts system which was intensive and popular thus named;

SOO BAKH DO

Overtime, political changes took place and a new dynasty was founded by King

Taejo and this dynasty was known as the;

JESEEN DYNASTY (1392 -1910 AD)

In this dynasty Buddhism was replaced with Confucianism as the state

religion. For the record after 1910 AD to 1945 AD Korea became occupied by

Japan. During this period of Japanese occupation, the Korean Martial Arts got

influenced by the Japanese Martial Arts. These Korean Martial Arts adopted

the linear movements which are commonly found in the systems of Marital Arts

of Japanese such as Shotokan Karate Do and others.

THE BIRTH OF TAE KWON DO MARTIAL ARTS (1945 AD): OVERVIEW

However, after the Second World War (1945) Korea was once more an

independent nation. During this period much focus and refinement was

indulged in the local martial arts, the Korean Nation took up the study and

training of Martial Arts seriously. The Korean Government demonstrated its

full participation through resources, guidelines and other facilities thereby

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ultimately making Korea a powerful Nation in Martials Arts. Some of the

Martial Arts that were grandly refined were;

CHUNG DO KWAN

CHANG MOO KWAN

SONG MOO KWAN

SUN MOO KWAN

CHOON MOO SUL

KUL SOOL

HAPKIDO

TUK GONG MOO SOOL

HWA RANG DO

MOO DUK KWAN

YUN MOO KWAN

IZ DO KWAN

OH DO KWAN

YAN WOO KWAN

YOO KWAN SUL

HOSHIDO

BUL KYO MOO DOOL

SOO BAKH DO

Overtime, these systems were extremely refined, defined in quality and some

were integrated which then produced a new product of the system named;

TAE SOO DO

Through intensive research, analysis, refinement and consultations with other

local experts on Martial Arts, a consensus was reached that Tae Soo Do should

be converted to mean and reflect in recognition of the Tae Kyon, the

consequence was that the name of;

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TAE KWON DO

Was born as a national name of the new system of Martial Arts.

It became essential and mandatory that this new system be integrated into the

structures of the society and in the persuit of this national vision and goal;

GENERAL CHOI HONG HI

Prescribed Tae Kwon Do for the police, army, airforce and other state

structures and organs. Therefore, this was crucially instrumental in making

Tae Kwon Do the national arts of Korea to this present day.

However, due to political turmoil that prevailed then in Korea, General Choi

Hong Hi left the country (1961) to settle in the United States of America. In

America he continued with his good work in martial arts and ultimately he

established the,

INTERNATIONAL TAE KWON DO

FEDERATION

Back home, the Government of Korea (1963) officially recognized Tae Kwon Do

as the National Martial Arts. Same being overseen by the national body called

the;

KOREAN KI DO

This national body embraced all other martial arts found in Korea. Given this

dispensation, all developing countries should emulate this aptitude in order to

develop all different systems of martial arts equitably and as a national

resource.

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THE UNIVERSAL IMPACTS OF KOREAN MARTIAL ARTS

(1960 – 2000 AD)

It is common cause that Korean martial arts spread throughout the world, and

were very exceptional and dynamic. Given this dispensation many teachers and

experts went to Korea to study martial arts in order to develop their experience

and technical diversity. A case in point is that of the Grandmaster of Karate in

Japan namely;

GRANDMASTER MASUTATSU OYAMA

Who went to Korea to study Tae Kwon Do before he developed his own and

most powerful style called;

KYOKUSHINKAI KARATE DO

On the Western hemisphere many people from America, Europe and Africa did

go to Korea to study these martial arts, thence the process of transplantation

was effected. Even then, many of the Korean masters and grandmaster had

migrated to settle in many of these countries thus brought greater benefit to

the local environment. On a pausing note, it is necessary to mention some of

the greatest grandmasters of Tae Kwon Do and other systems (without

discounting others) and these are;

GRANDMASTER HEC 11 CHO

GRANDMASTER JHOON RHEE

GRANDMASTER SO NEI CHU

GRANDMASTER IN SU SEO

GRANDMASTER PAI KIMM YUK

GRANDMASTER MYUNG SOO

GRANDMSTER DR. T. WILLIAM

GRANDMASTER RALPH SHUELER

GRANDMASTER DR. JOHN SMITH

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GRANDMSTER YEUNG SOO WOO

GRANDMASTER DANIEL ROGERS

GRANDMASTER DON MEYER

GRANDMASTER DR. JOHN M. CRUDUP

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CHAPTER SEVEN

THE INSTITUTIONALIZATION OF MARTIAL ARTS

(BOTSWANA)

(Second Expansionary Period 1980-1990)

THE BOTSWANA NATIONAL SPORTS COUNCIL (1982)

very country in the world has an institution that is responsible for the

development and management of sports. Botswana was not immune

from this organizational requirement.

Consequently this body was established on the 1st July 1982 and was called

the;

BOTSWANA NATIONAL SPORTS COUNCIL (BNSC).

It’s main objective was to enhance the development of all sporting codes in

Botswana, and to promote same to the international dimensions. In this

regard, Botswana’s Martial Arts was a beneficiary to this state organ, and the

progress of Martial Arts locally and internationally eventually gave this body an

immense aptitude of national pride, especially when the realization came that

their investments had paid dividend and raised the image of the country.

THE FORMATION OF BOTSWANA KARATE ASSOCIATION (1982)

The Martial Arts entities of Blackado Shukokai School, Tsosamotse Shukokai

School, Dragon Shukokai School and Gaborone Shukokai School convened and

thereon formed The Botswana Karate Association (BOKA), which organization

was officially launched by the then Director of Sports Mr Segopolo at the

University of Botswana and Swaziland (Gaborone Campus), in 1982. However,

it must be realized that the said move meant that the Martial Arts Schools

such as,

SAILONG KUNG FU SCHOOL

E

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FUKAYAMA KUNG FU SCHOOL

LOBATSE JUDO SCHOOL

LOBATSE SHOTOKAN SCHOOL

OIKADO MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL

Were excluded or sidelined despite their long-standing contribution to the

Martial Arts of Botswana. Unfortunately, the new organization became the

Shukokai Karate Do Enterprise and this was the position until such a time

that,

TSOSAMOTSE SHOKOKAI SCHOOL

BLAKADO SHOKOKAI SCHOOL

DRAGON SHUKOKAI SCHOOL

All became dysfunctional and demised. Thus leaving the strings of control to

the few who augustly guarded their positions against other Martial Arts Clubs

and systems of Martial Arts to this present day. However, with the advent of

Shito Ryu Karate Do it was anticipated that this very body (BOKA) would be

diversified but then due to some internal strife the Shito Ryu Karate Do didn’t

enjoy any blessings from the union for too long. It broke away and formed its

own union which was called the Kofukan Federation.

KOFUKAN FEDERATION.

Subsequent to the formation of the Botswana Karate Association, same became

a member of the Botswana National Sports Council and through this affiliation

the Botswana Karate Association flourished and began to represent Botswana

internationally through its Karate National Team(s).

Sensei Sello Socca Alexander Moruakgomo from Mahalapye Village and former

member of the Tsosamotse Shukokai School, then became a Black Belt 1982

and later on the Chief Instructor of the Botswana Karate Association. Through

his principal guidance and the immense assistance from other members, the

Botswana Karate Teams began to emerge strongly and partook in the

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international events and brought home triumphs in medals. However, there

were other Martial Artist who significantly complimented the efforts of Sensei

Socca Allexander Moruakgomo and these were Sensei Marx Ngwako (Late),

Sensei Thuto Thuto, Sensei Gift Nkwe, Sensei Union Kgafela, Sensei Thupa

Thupa, Sensei Million Masumbika, Sensei Geoff Thembo and Sensei Mpho

Bakwadi to name but a few.

Due to the collective and distinguished work of these men and further of the

committed and ability of Sensei Moruakgomo, these cumulatively caused that

he be awarded 4th Dan Black Belt in Shukokai Karate (1996). This however,

meant that he became the highest ranking martial artist in the Botswana’s

Shukokai Karate System. The achievements of the Botswana Karate

Association became an eye opener to the government especially the Botswana

National Sports Council because of the effective realization that martial arts

was indeed an internationally viable enterprise thereby contrasting the archaic

view of the 1970 decade.

THE ADVENT OF SHITO-RYU KARATE SCHOOLS AND HAYASHI– HA

KARATE DO

(BOTSWANA)

Within the year 1986, internal conflicts emerged and raged within the

Shukokai Karate circles in that, Sensei Union Kgafela and Marx Ngwako ended

up establishing their own school called The KUTLWANO SHUKOKAI CLUB. In

subsequent years, Sensei Thuto Thuto and Sensei Thupa Thupa opted for the

new martial arts system called Shito-Ryu Karate Do. The Shito-Ryu eventually

formed its own federation which was called the KOFUKAN FEDERATION in

1990. This therefore meant that Botswana had by now the following

organizations, Botswana Karate Association and Kofukan Federation (without

excluding the Botswana Judo Association).

However in 1998, Sensei Thuto Thuto (3rd Dan) formed another new

organization which he called the BOTSWANA HAYASHI-HA KARATE UNION.

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In the same vein others also formed different associations which therefore

meant that Botswana had over time acquired the following bodies;

JAPAN KARATE ASSOCIATION, BOTSWANA.

BOTSWANA KOFUKAN FEDERATION.

BOTSWANA SHUKOKAI KARATE FEDERATION.

BOTSWANA HAYASHI HA-SHITO RYU KARATE UNION.

BOTSWANA JUDO ASSOCIATION.

JKA BOTSWANA WORLD FEDERATION.

In the course of time, the Botswana Karate Association eventually got visited by

the reknowned Sensei Shigeru Kimura (8th Dan Chief Instructor). The Kofukan

Federation by Sensei Keiji Tomiyama, while Hashiya-Ha Association by Sensei

Nikki Pillay. All these visitors were some of the world’s rated martial art

instructors. Despite these separations from and within the Shukokai Karate

System, the three organizations worked significantly well towards the

promotion of the image of Botswana in the martial arts as would be evidenced

in the subsequent deliberations. However and overtime Sensei Thuto Thuto

once more broke away from BOTSWANA HAYASHI – HA KARATE UNION in

2005.

THE SELIBE PHIKWE KARATE CONVENTION (1989-1999).

(Botswana Secondary Schools)

THE SELEBI PHIKWE SECONDARY SCHOOL

One the 17th June 1989 several Secondary Schools assembled at Selebi

Phikwe Secondary School for their Annual All Style Karate Tournament which

lasted two days. After this tournament all the senior students and their martial

art club coordinators convened a special convention. They had realized the

urgent need for the formation of a body that would consolidate, coordinate and

progress the interests of the Secondary School Martial Arts regardless of style

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orientation. It was then resolved that and the terms of reference were as

follows;

That a Secondary School’s Martial Arts Association should be formed

and that the annual martial arts tournaments of the secondary

schools be confirmed and that all schools be encouraged to

participate.

That the association be registered and notification of its existence be

given to the relevant sporting authorities and that all Headmasters of

Secondary Schools be informed that this body has become the bases

of national framework and institution in Botswana.

That the headmasters and sports masters be conscientised and be

persuaded to give the sports of martial arts an opportunity to

entrench itself as a recreational activity in the schools and be

supported materially. Thereby creating the recreational diversity in

the schools.

That the local and other experts be consulted and be urged to render

voluntary assistance in the areas of consultancy, coaching and

grading of all the concerned students in their respective schools and

villages.

That clinics be periodically conducted to promote cooperation,

efficiency, technical awareness and integrated framework in all the

Secondary Schools.

The impact of this convention became apparent in the subsequent years

whereby many Secondary Schools began to participate in these national

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tournaments and even the headmasters became more willing to allow their

respective schools to host same.

THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

The Selibe Phikwe Convention (1989) also decide to choose and appoint Sensei

Kgosibodiba Moses (Then a student at the University of Botswana) to become

interim Chairman and to constitute a steering committee which would consist

of the teachers who were present and who concurred. However, the exercise of

implementation took the whole year due to limited resources and bureaucratic

constraints.

Despite these rudimentary problems the interim committee managed to

organize a huge National Martial Arts Tournament consisting of nineteen

Secondary School (1990). The said tournament resulted in the selection of the

executive committee of the Botswana Secondary School All Style Karate

Association (B.O.S.K.A). The report reproduced hereunder will disclose the finer

details of the participants and the overall outcome:

THE 1ST NATIONAL KARATE ALL STYLES CHAMPIONSHIP BOTSWANA

SECONDARY SCHOOLS 29TH JUNE 1990, TONOTA

The 1990 National Karate Championships Tournament for Secondary Schools

was held at Tonota College of Education, because of the special request by the

host Shashe River School. The Dean of Students Affairs of Tonota College

Education Mr Dube, welcomed all the Karate students and the Teachers who

came with their teams. This tournament proved to be a huge success by any

measure at the time.

THE ZONE LEVEL PARTICIPANTS TO QUALIFY FOR NATIONAL FINALS:

25TH MAY 1990 DIVISION ONE

SOUTHERN ZONE

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MACHA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MOLEFI SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MOSHUPA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

LOBATSE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

ST. JOSEPHS COLLEGE.

MOEDING COLLEGE.

KGARI SECHELE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

NALEDI SECONDARY SCHOOL.

GABORONE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

NORTHERN ZONE

TUTUME MCCONNEL’S COLLEGE.

MATERSPEI COLLEGE.

FRANCISTOWN SECONDARY SCHOOL.

SHASHE RIVER SCHOOL.

MADIBA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MATSHEKE HILL SCHOOL.

SWANENG HILL SCHOOL.

LETLHAKANE SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL.

SELEBI PHIKWE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

WINNING ZONE TEAMS FOR NATIONAL 1990

SOUTHERN ZONE POSITION

LOBATSE SEC. SCHOOL ONE.

MOEDING COLLEGE TWO.

KGARI SECHELE SECONDARY THREE.

NALEDI SECONDARY SCHOOL FOUR.

NORTHERN ZONE POSITION

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SHASHE SEC. SCHOOL ONE.

TUTUME MCCONNEL TWO.

MOENG COLLEGE THREE.

MADIBA SECONDARY SCHOOL FOUR.

THE METHOD OF FIGHTING AT NATIONAL FINALS

A team in its position fought a team in the same position having been attained

in the Zone Level in that Position One will eliminate Position One to remain the

winner at nationals.

The National Karate Champion (1990) was won by the Lobatse Secondary

Schools Karate Club because they took position one. In the subsequent year

the Lobatse Secondary School Karate team was made up of;

SEMPAI LETLOGETSWE MOGOROSI.

SEMPAI GODFREY RADIJENG.

SEMPAI MOLEFE RANTSUDU.

SEMPAI THAPELO MOLEFE.

SEMPAI ARABANG MTYALE.

SEMPAI MOSES MASILO AND,

SEMPAI OREBOTSE MPHO MOPHUTING.

The said karate team was very exceptional in its technical prowesss and

brilliance, it was under the instructorship and guidance of Sensei (Miss) Rolang

Senwelo who was also the sportsmaster. Furthermore, the team, succeeded

due to the distinguish support and assistance from the Lobatse Secondary

Headmaster Mr Segomotso Basiamang. Sensei Rolang Senwelo was under the

mentorship of Kyoshi Patrick Makgabenyana.

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Other Secondary Schools that eventually snatched the position one from

Lobatse Secondary School were the;

NALEDI SECONDARY SCHOOL (GABORONE).

SHASHE RIVER SECONDARY SCHOOL (TONOTA).

MC CONNEL’S COLLEGE (TUTUME).

LETLHAKANE SECONDARY SCHOOL (ORAPA) AND,

KGARI SECHELE SECONDARY SCHOOL (MOLEPOLOLE).

It was observable that between the 1990-1995 the Southern Zone Secondary

Schools then dominated these tournaments by virtue of acquiring position one

to three but towards the end of 1999 the Northern Zone School dominated

these tournaments especially the McConnel’s College, Letlhakane Senior

Secondary School, Masunga Senior Secondary School and the Francistown

Senior Secondary School. Immediately after the championships (1990)

tournament, an executive committee for the Botswana Secondary School’s

Karate Association was chosen, as evidenced by the report reproduced below:

THE ASSOCIATION OF SECONDARY SCHOOLS KARATE CHAMPIONSHIP:

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (1990)

Teachers who acted as Karate Club Coordinators held a meeting at Tonota

College of Education before the commencement of the Tournament and the

following transpired;

The first interim Executive Committee was elected to steer the

association until the General Election pursuant to the resolution of

the 17th June 1989 at Selebi Phikwe Secondary School.

To seek Registration and Recognition with BISA (Botswana Integrated

Sports Association).

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THE MEMBERS PRESENT AT AFORESAID MEETING

MR CHANDRA SEKHAR-MOSHUPA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MR I.K. BASUPI- NALEDI SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MR S. KISSONNDOYAL – SELIBE PHIKWE SECONDARY

SCHOOL.

MR T.O KAASANG- SHASHE RIVER SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MR G.O RADIJENG-LOBATSE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MR J MADIBELA – MADIBA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MR M. MOLEPOLOLE- KGARI SECHELE SECONDARY

SCHOOL.

MR A. BHELLA- SHASHE RIVER SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MR M. DIW- MOENG COLLEGE.

MR S.C KANSHIK-MOSHUPA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MR B.G.S SETILO-MOLEFI SECONDARY SCHOOL.

MR P.S. MAKGABENYANA- LOBATSE/PERSONAL CAPACITY.

MR M.R KGOSIBODIBA- TUTUME MCCONNEL COLLEGE.

MR CARNEY-MOEDING COLLEGE, OTSE.

THE INTERIM EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE FOR THE ASSOCIATION OF

SECONADRY SCHOOL’S (MARTIAL ARTS).

MR M.R. KGOSIBODIBA, TUTUME MCCONNEL COMMUNITY

COLLEGE, CHAIRMAN.

MR J. MADIBELA, MADIBA SEC SCHOOL, VICE CHAIRMAN.

MR V.C. SAKHAR, MOSHUPA SEC. SCHOOL, TREASURER.

MR T.O. KAANG, SHASHE RIVER SCHOOL, ADD MEMBER.

MR M. MOLEPOLOLE, KGARI SECHELE SCHOOL, ADD MEMBER.

MR B.G.S. SETILO, MOLEFI SEC. SCHOOL, ADD MEMBER.

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Wherefore, the abovementioned persons were duly assigned look after the

affairs of Secondary School Martial Arts by virtue of the mandate given in this

convention.

THE TOURNAMENT AWARDS

Each Team that won was given a Floating Trophy to retain until the next

season whereby they were to defend it in that season. The trophy was the joint

property of said association and schools concerned.

THE OVERALL POINTS AT NATIONAL LEVEL

SOUTH ZONE NORTH ZONE

20.5 (1991) 25.5 (1991)

20.5 (1990) 23.5 (1990)

WHEREFORE, THE NORTH HAS IMPROVED WHILE THE SOUTH HAS

SHOWN IT HAS DROPPED DOWN BY 5% (FIVE PERCENT) POINTS

The Association should also consider arranging International Tournaments

with one or any of the following countries, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Swaziland and

Zambia for the winning teams at National Level and to join the Botswana

Integrated Sports Association (BISA) and Confederation of School Sports

Association (COSASSA) in the future.

CONCLUSION AND SPECIAL THANKS

On behalf of all Karatekas, Schools and Teachers, everyone who participated

and contributed to the worthy conclusion of this 1991 Karate Championship

are thanked with special gratitude from the host Shashe River Secondary

School and Tonota College of Education.

Thank you.

Prepared by:

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INTERIM SECRETARY G.O. RADIJENG

1ST Dan Black Belt Oikado

APPROVED BY: P.S Makgabenyana 6th Dan Black Belt Oikado

And Club Coordinator for Lobatse Secondary School and to:

INSTRUCTORS OF OIKADO SCHOOL (BOTSWANA)

DATED AT LOBATSE ON THIS 2ND DAY OF JULY 1991.

AND TO: SPORTSMASTER, CLUB COORDINATORS AND CAPTAINS OF ALL

SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN BOTSWANA AND THE SENSEIS.

It must be noted that though the alleged executive functioned for a short time

(practical) because many of the teachers concerned were expatriates thus some

of their duties and goal were adopted and carried forward by the Oikado

Martial Arts School. Since 1991 the OIKADO MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL took

over the organization, grading and running of these National Tournaments and

this position was evidenced by the hosting of the tenth anniversary of these

events which was held at Lobatse on the 11th July 1998.

It is very important to state that the teachers who were assigned to look after

the Karate Clubs in the secondary schools in Botswana contributed greatly in

making these tournaments a success and were always assisted by Kyoshi

Makgabenyana. Sensei Tizza Tyibilika, Sensei Samuel Ramaeba. Sensei Moses

Kgosibodiba and Sensei Fisher Masilo. In subsequent events, many other

Martial Artists began to appear and gave hand where ever necessary and

possible. Basically, what transpired from these tournaments of such magnitude

in attendance and participation was the following:

That many Secondary Schools in Botswana had Martial Arts talent and

that this sporting activity was widespread and intensely popular contrary

to the old view that it was a violent recreational activity. The students

who were not Martial Arts practitioners actually enjoy the spectacular

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action from these tournaments as was/could be measured by the full

house attendances in the respective host school.

That respective students of martial arts were given a once in a lifetime

opportunity to engage in a wide range of exponents and to display their

skills, technical prowess, ability and natural talent in this field.

Martial arts students from extreme remote corners of the country were

apportuned to once in a year meet with others and to exchange their

technical skill, problems and achievements thereby promoting inter-

personal relationship and national integration of Martial Arts.

Martial arts students then were accorded an opportunity to see, meet

and discuss with some experts in the Martial Arts. And as a consequence

of this, some of these students were given specialized training programs

which eventually led them to become excellent Black Belt holders, and

distinguished exponents in Botswana National Martial Arts Teams.

Upon noticing the magnitude of appreciation, attendance and tournaments, it

was resolved that the country should be divided into two regions namely; the

Northern Zone and Southern Zone (Mahalapye being the dividing line) and

further that each zone should host its own regional tournament and acquire

their positions one to five and thereon these will meet their counterpart at

National level. An indication of the said method and programme can be

discerned by observation in the report dated 13th June 1992 about the

Southern Zone Championship (reproduced):

THE BOTSWANA SECONDARY SCHOOLS KARATE CHAMPIONSHIP:

SOUTH ZONE – HELD ON THE 6TH JUNE 1992 AT MOEDING

COLLEGE, OTSE.

To: All Secondary Schools (South).

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Participants: Seepaitso Sec, Moshupa Sec, Letsopa Jnr, Lobatse Sec, Moeding

College (host), Naledi Sec, Macha Sec, Gaborone Sec, Kgari Sechele Sec, Molefi

Sec, School (s).

Absent: St Joseph’s College and Ipelegeng Jnr Sec School.

COMMENCEMENT

Tournament commenced at 10 am and concluded at 8.35 pm.

FORM OF TOURNAMENT

The tournament was conducted on elimination basis for the division one (A),

two (B) then at third (C) division on point accumulation for determination of

position one to five.

DIVISION ONE SCHEDULE OF PARTICIPATION

All teams started herein then the winning teams proceeded to division two, and

the winning teams at this division proceeded to division three as a finalist and

to gain points for its position. Teams disqualified on their second chance were

Seepapitso Sec. School, Matsha Sec. School and Letsopa Jnr Sec. School.

Visible problems regarding these teams were lack of adequate preparation

because of no coaching from people versed in the art so as to help them in the

skill of scoring effectively. Moeding College exhibited tremendous force and

effectiveness seconded by the Gaborone Sec. School and reason for not

attaining higher position was due to failure to score since some of their fighting

bouts brought zero thus favoring their opponent. Another team which evoked

concern was Moshupa Secondary School in that, it gradually emerged as a

force to reckon with since it quickly pushed to the finalist division and the

marginal difference between itself and Moeding College and, Gaborone

Secondary was half point. It must be pointed out that the Moshupa Sec School

was under the guidance of Sensei Julian Matthews, a teacher there at and who

had been mentored by Kyoshi Patrick Makgabenyana to the status of 1st Black

Belt.

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THE BEST FIGHTING TEAMS

Naledi Secondary School, Molefi Secondary School and Gaborone Secondary

School. Their bouts wee characterized by technical prowess and accuracy and

scoring power.

THE MASTER TEAM

At the finalist level, Lobatse Secondary School as the defending champion

became the master team by facing four schools namely:

GABORONE SECONDARY SCHOOL

MOEDING COLLEGE

NALEDI SECONDARY SCHOOL AND

MOSHUPA SECONDARY SCHOOL

This team was seconded by Gaborone Secondary School which also became a

master-team against Moeding College, Naledi Secondary School.

THE OUTCOME OF TOURNAMENT

The Board of Scorekeepers provided the total result as follows:

POSITION 1 – NALEDI SECONDARY SCHOOL (12.5 POINTS).

POSITION 2 – LOBATSE SECONDARY SCHOOL (11.5 POINTS).

POSITION 3 – MOEDING COLLEGE (9.5 POINTS).

POSITION 4 – GABORONE SECONDARY SCHOOL (9.0 POINTS).

POSITION 5 – MOSHUPA SECONDARY SCHOOL (8.5 POINTS).

THE TECHNICAL CHANGES: COMPARATIVE BALANCE

1990/91 South Zone Champions, School in position one was Lobatse

Seconadry School. In 1992 it was held by Naledi Secondary School.

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1991 South Zone position two was Moeding College, in 1992 it was

Lobatse Secondary School.

1991 South Zone position three was Kgari Sechele Secondary School

in 1992 it was Moeding College.

THE NATIONAL TOURNAMENTS FINAL CHAMPIONSHIP (1992).

Held on 27th June at Kgari Sechele Secondary School, Molepolole overall

results:

POSITION 1 NALEDI SEC SCHOOL VS SHASHE SEC SCHOOL (12.5)(13.5).

POSITION 2 LOBATSE SEC SCHOOL VS TUTUME MCCONNEL COLLEGE

(11.5)(9.0).

POSITION 3 MOEDING COLLEGE VS LOTLHAKANE SEC SCHOOL (11.5)

(7.5).

POSITION 4 GABORONE SEC SCHOOL VS MADIBA SEC SCHOOL (9.5)

(6.0).

POSITION 5 MOSHUPA SEC SCHOOL VS FRANCISTOWN SEC SCHOOL (8.5)

(5.0).

All these teams are to compete on the 27th June 1992 at Kgari Sechele

Secondary School in the final National championship in Molepolole.

THE GENERAL OBSERVATION

Standard of fighting and tournament has improved significantly and

spectators appreciated the occasion. The standard performance had

great quality.

Clubs should have constant interschool visits and exchange visits to

share their problems and skills.

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Clinics are required for teachers who act as club co-coordinators, to be

assisted with the knowledge of organization and management of clubs

and tournaments, refereeing and coaching, the aim being to enhance the

appreciation and aware of the technical structure of martial arts

techniques.

THE TROPHIES

The Southern Zone School should form their sub committee which would

be responsible for Southern Zone tournaments and organize trophies for

position 1,2,3,4,5 for their zone (similar position should apply to the

North).

THE CONCLUSION

All participants, hosting school administration, teachers and spectors are

thanked for making the 6th June 1992, South Zone Championship, a

memorable and successful occasion.

Yours faithfully

(V.C. Sekhar)

(S.K.A. Treasurer)

Moshupa Sec. School

Dated at Moshupa Secondary School this 12th Day of June 1992.

Cc to: All Secondary Schools of Southern Zone, Botswana.

THE REMARKS:

The method of dividing the country into the North Zone and the South Zone

eased the task of having to run a tournament within two days due to the large

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number of the participants. It was further considered advantageous that the

hosting of these Zonal and National tournaments be rotated among the schools

that which expressed the desire to host any of the two.

In orbiter it be noted that towards the end of the 1990 decade, the Martial Arts

training and participation in the national events became evidently widespread

as it included schools such as Mogale Community Jnr Sec School at Maokane

Village (Jwaneng), Macha Senior Secondary School(Kang), Ghantsi Secondary

School, Shakawe and Maun Secondary Schools.

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CHAPTER EIGHT

THE FOUNDATIONS OF INTERNAL MARTIAL ARTS (PAQUA-CHANG

TAI – CHI CHUAN AND I – CHI): OVERVIEW

Going deeper into time, it becomes vital and significant to mention some of the

most antique and very powerful Kung Fu systems being the;

PAQUA CHANG.

TAI CHI CHUAN. The Paqua Chang is a very deep, intensed and dynamic system that is grounded

in concept of the eight diagram palm boxing art. Thus this very concept being found in the dynamics of the;

I-CHING.

The historical facts point out that this system of martial art was founded by one;

GRANDMASTER TUNG HAI CHUAN

Who at the age of 83 years passed away. It is also stated that this system

proprietarily uses the fundamental principle of walking in the circle and with the single palm change, has been practiced for over five thousand years by the Taoist Monks in the form of the;

TAOIST CHI KUNG FU.

And this systems was fully premised and grounded, in tandem with the mother

diagram of the; I – CHING.

It must also be pointed out to the student (s) that one of the greatest internal boxer and school of Paqua Chang was;

GRANDMASTER SUN LU – TANG

Who was of the lineage of Grandmaster Tung Hai Chuan, founder (1861 – 1932). Grandmaster Sun Lu-Tang had learnt this unique Martial Arts from;

GRANDMASTER CHENG TING – HUA

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Who was a direct student of the founder of Pa Qua Chang.

Grandmaster Sun Lu – Tang was also a profound peacemaker and brilliant technician in that overtime, he infused several innovations in the system which

dynamically impacted the context of; CHING-KUNG EXERCISES.

MARTIAL ARTS STRATEGY. PHILOSOPHICAL DYNAMICS INTELLECTUAL KNOWLEDGE.

RESEARCH AND APPLICATION. SELF KNOWLEDGE AND MASTERY.

All these changes and innovations were premised on the fundamentals of I – Ching. Some of the greatest grandmasters of Paqua Chang system were;

GRANDMASTER MADAM FU-YU SHUN (76).

GRANDMASTER LU HUNG-BIN (80). GRANDMASTER LI LOONG-DAO. GRANDMASTER JING HAO QUAN.

GRANDMASTER LI CHING YUEN. GRANDMASTER DR JOHN P. PAINTER.

This form of Martial Arts is one of the rarest in the world and it is under the general guidance and monitoring by the institutes of the;

UNITED STATES CHINESE MARTIAL ARTS COUNCIL. IN CONJUCTION WITH THE AAU.

The student (s) should note that, the import of the synopsis above is to demonstrate that a style can undergo the process of internal innovation and

speciation over a period of time due to contributions of different masters within the system. By way of extension, the student(s) is adverted to the dynamic

systems of; TAI CHI CHUAN.

The said martial arts system was originally not a fighting system but rather a dynamic process and technique of developing the fact of exercises that

promoted the aspects of circulation and digestion in the human body, thence it was termed

TAI CHI. However, over a period of years the animal movements as was discovered in the

Shaolin Temples were added thereby giving Tai Chi the most effective and dynamic edge and angle of being a fighting art thereby being known as the;

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TAI – CHI CHUAN.

which means the supreme ultimate fist.

The student (s) is made alive to the fact that there is a definite, intimate and profound relationship within the systems of;

PAQUA CHANG. TAI CHI CHUAN. HSING-I.

In that the root and substance of their nature is founded and grounded on the fundamental principles of I-Ching. The student(s) is adverted to the fact that

Hsing – I Chuan was founded by Chinese General Yu Fei during the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644 AD) and Grandmaster Ching Lu Feng perfected the

discipline to its highest level. In this present era, the system has twelve animal forms to be mastered by the students of the system.

THE NATURE OF I-CHING The nature of I-Ching is vast but nonetheless it is constantly referred to as the;

BOOK OF CHANGES.

This is an ancient Chinese text which laid down the foundations of the culture’s thinking and ideology. It is similar to the Old Testament. It provided

the powerful and profound source of;

CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

PHILOSOPHICAL EXPERIENCE.

WHOLENESS OF REALITY.

And from which the profound concepts of Ying-Yang emerged, thereby

influencing the dynamics of all Martial Arts and its application in life. Essentially, the infusion of the I-Ching bonded the fundamentals of Tai Chi

Chuan, Hsing – I and Paqua Chang which inter-alia provided the crucial principles of;

BALANCING IN MOVEMENTS. KEEPING IN MOTION AND HARMONY.

MANAGEMENT AND VARIATION OF ENERGY. IN KEEPING WITH TIMING AND SENSITIVITY. ADHERENCE TO CIRCULAR PATTERNS.

MAINTENANCE OF THE POINT OF CENTEREDNESS.

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It must be mentioned once more that intrinsically and central to all these martial arts system was the fundamental appreciation and significance of;

QI-GONG

which was embedded in the traditional Chinese medical view and also in the martial arts. This development was very crucial in the internal arts. This was very crucial in the internal training martial arts whereby through QI-Qong

dimensions of body strength and fitness were being enhanced and the aging processes being slowed down. And above all, the promotion of protectiveness of

the body against injury (wei-qi) and other functions were inclusive. Furthermore, the practice of QI-Gong has great impacts on the aspects of inner balance, calm and serenity which aspects are very crucial and pivotal in the

training of martial arts. Some martial arts systems such as those of;

CHIN NA.

Derived their knowledge of the body, joints bone joints, ligaments, muscles and

vital points from the traditional Chinese medicine theory. Thence it came out that, it was not adequate to merely understand the techniques and application of such technique but to know as well, the dimensions of message, revival and

affected area restoration over the area affected. Conversely, these principles permeated many of the Kung Fu Martial Arts

systems and all those of Karate. It is imperative that the students of Martial Arts if he is sincere in the pursuit of deeper knowledge about martial arts,

should study the I-Ching so that one can emerge as a fulfilled and accomplished martial artist.

The Shaolin Martial Arts reached its apex of development in the various periods mentioned below;

THE MING DYNASTY (1368 – 1644).

THE SHUNG ZHI (1644 -1661).

THE KANG XI (1661 – 1722).

THE QIAN LONG (1736 – 1796).

However during the Ming Dynasty great Chinese Generals being;

GENERAL QI JIGUANG.

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GENERAL YU DAYOU.

Vigorously and totally advocated the practical approach to the training of

Martial Arts. It was during this epoch that one of the greatest masters in the art of Chinese grappling and throwing being the systems of Chin Na, respectfully went to Japan. His name was;

GRANDMASTER CHEN YUAN YUN.

When in Japan Grandmaster Chen Yuan Yun taught the inhabitants the Chinese skills and art of;

CHIN NA.

And it was well received and encouraged by the Government. Overtime, these very arts were named.

JI JUTSU.

JU DO.

and were indigenously redefined in order to need(meet) the local needs and environment. It must be pointed out that in the overall; the Shaolin Martial Arts ultimately produced the most dynamic and outlasting methods of training

which were named;

THE TRAINING METHODS OF 72

ARTS OF SHAOLIN.

The student(s) must be made aware that one of such famous method and system is that of the;

SOUTHERN SHAOLIN HUNG GAR KUNG FU.

And one of its greatest exponent and master was;

GRANDMASTER LAM SAI WING.

On the same wave and note, one of the greatest and best ever Shaolin fighter of all times was the Head of the Shaolin Monastery being the most revered;

GRANDMASTER REV. MIAO XING.

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At this juncture, the student(s) is made alive to the fact that there are many great legends and venerated grandmasters of these martial arts who had lived

and took these arts to the highest levels of exceptional manifestations and some of them were;

GRANDMASTER WONG FEI HUNG.

GRANDMASTER TID KIU SAM.

GRANDMASTER LEI SAI FAI.

GRANDMASTER LEUNG KWAN.

GRANDMASTER WONG KAI MAN.

GRANDMASTER JUNG WAI MING.

GRANDMASTER WU GUM SIN.

GRANDMASTER JYU GA YU.

GRANDMASTER LAM FOOK SING.

GRANDMASTER GWOK YAN.

GRANDMASTER YUN SHEN (NUN).

GRANDMASTER LIU JIN SHENG.

GRANDMASTER SHA BAO XING.

GRANDMASTER YANG HONG XU.

GRANDMASTER WANG Z PING.

GRANDMASTER MA YUN LONG.

GRANDMASTER WU LAP FUNG.

It must be emphasized that the above mentioned does not mean that the names are limited to them, there are many grandmasters equal to these

mentioned but for the content of this work the few mentioned were a window about the immensity of such masters and grandmasters. Once more, it is emphasized to the student(s) that the source of all martial arts was the Shaolin

Temples, who derived much of their inspiration and spiritual source from the Chan Zong (Buddhist Schools).

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CHAPTER NINE

UNIVERSITIES AND MARTIAL ARTS

THE ROLE OF UNIVERSITIES IN MARTIAL ARTS: OVERVIEW

any countries have distinguished Universities and within their

sporting structures and even in their curriculum Martial Art

science is found and venerated as a discipline. The role that these

Universities play in the practice of Martial Arts is varied and diversed, most

often it is in the context of teaching, training, research and development of the

Martial Arts science. Furthermore, many of these Universities do interact with

each other through the premise of the;

INTERVASITY GAMES

At national, regional and international dimensions. This position and

interaction will be substantiated by windowing the various institutions being

the;

UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA.

UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE (GREAT BRITIAN).

UNIVERSITY OF KEIO (JAPAN).

UNIVERSITY OF SAN FRANCISCO (USA).

It must be pointed that, it is in these institutions that the best environment of

learning, development and refinement of one’s martial arts (including

intellectual refinement) can be found and acquired.

M

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THE UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA KARATE SCHOOLS (1980-2000)

The University of Botswana had several Martial Arts Schools such as the

Shukokai Club, Shotokan Club, Shito-Ryu Club and the Oikado Club. Each of

these clubs advanced their own style interests and also propagated their

respective styles to many secondary schools. Due to this premise, the

University of Botswana Martial Arts teams played a significant role in

enhancing the Martial Arts practice in the secondary schools in that they

participated in their tournaments, coaching and gradings. This tradition was

started by the BLAKADO Karate School in 1970-1980. Furthermore, some of

the secondary schools leavers (form five) who practiced Martial Arts at college

level and got admitted at the University of Botswana and continued with their

styles and allegiance to the Secondary Schools they had attended. It is also

important to note that some of these college graduates even went overseas for

studies and thereat continued their martial arts under different instructors and

systems. On their return to the country they invested such knowledge locally.

On the other hand, all the University of Botswana Martial Arts Clubs annually

selected a Karate team that which would represent the University of Botswana

during their inter-varsity games. This team would compete against the Karate

teams from the University of Lesotho, University of Swaziland and or University

of Zimbabwe and University of Zambia whichever is the case.

In the same breath in the 1988 - 1990 the University Karate Team proceeded to

compete against the Botswana Police College Karate Club, Sebele Agricultural

College (as it was then) and the Polytechnic College (VTC). Such confrontations

resulted in the organization of a mini-league called the Premier

Championships. Some of the University of Botswana Martial Artists after

completing their studies joined the secondary schools as teachers. On service

therein they began to teach Martial Arts and supervised their martial arts

teams. In the same breath, several of the University of Botswana lectures did

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train Martial Arts whilst studying in the University of Botswana and eventually

they graduated to Black –Belt status holders.

THE INTERVARSITY GAMES

In a synopsis and different dimensions it is important to window the fact that

the aspect of Intervarsity Martial Arts Games (Competition) is not a peculiar

and or new phenomina to Botswana. On the international scale two good

instances can be isolated in order to demonstrate such common disapensation,

which are:

THE SOUTH AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES KARATE TOURNAMENT

(1990).

In this tournament eight universities had assembled at the University of

Pretoria. The sponsor of the event was SAAMBOU, as thus the occasion was

named;

THE SAMBOU, SAU KARATE TOURNAMENT, 1990

The universities that which excelled were the University of Witwatersrand,

University of Pretoria, University of Cape Town and University of Orange Free

State.

GREAT BRITAIN AND JAPAN, 1990 TOURNAMENT.

On the overseas dimension we window the, UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE

(ENGLAND) AND KEIO UNIVERSITY (JAPAN) 1990

The Japan Keio University was on tour in England, and the two institutions

competed in various skills, Kata and Kumite. Great masters of martial arts

were present some of them being;

GRANDMASTER MONABE (KEIO UNIVERSITY).

GRANDMASTER KEINOSUKE ENOEDA (ENGLAND).

GRANDMASTER ERICH PICH.

GRANDMASTER STEVE MANNION.

GRANDMASTER MICK STRACHAM.

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GRANDMASTER STEVE CATTLE.

GRANDMASTER GARY HARFORD.

The overall position and outcome was that England won Japan. Both teams or

institutions fielded the best exponents ever who some of them were:

MASTER KENJI SAKOH.

MASTER RICHARD

MACKMAN.

MASTER KEN HORI.

MASTER MASAHIKO

SATOH.

MASTER JOHN MURPHY.

MASTER KEITARO FUKUDA.

MASTER CAROLINE

QUANSAH.

MASTER HAZEL MOORE.

MASTER JASON PURCELL.

MASTER HAJIME

MIYAZAKI.

MASTER EDWARD NG.

MASTER NICK WHITE.

MASTER SEIICHIRO ASANO.

MASTER GETHIN REES.

MASTER KOJI UEHARA.

MASTER MARKUS FLAVELL.

It must be commented that this was a very big and great event, that which

added more value and quality on the goodwill of these institutions and nations.

THE INTERNATIONAL CHINESE

MARTIAL ARTS CHAMPIONSHIPS AND MASTERS EXHIBITION

(1991)

(UNIVERSITY OF SAN FRANCISCO)

This event was held at the University of San Francisco CA, USA in June 1991.

Great and exceptional Grandmasters were in attendance that being;

GRANDMASTER LI JIN-HENG.

GRANDMSTER DOC FAI WONG.

GRANDMASTER DOUGLAS WONG.

GRANDMASTER Y.C. WONG.

GRANDMASTER LILY LAU.

GRANDMASTER TAI YIM.

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GRANDMASTER ANTHONY CHAN.

GRANDMASTER LEE KOON

HUNG.

GRANDMASTER ARHTAR LEE.

GRANDMASTER GINI LAU.

GRANDMASTER CHEE KIM

THONG.

GRANDMASTER TAT MAU WONG.

And some of the countries that attended this occasion were:

SOUTH AFRICA.

MEXICO.

KOREA.

AUSTRALIA.

GREAT BRITAIN.

HONG KONG.

CANADA.

BRAZIL.

UNITED STATES OF

AMERICA.

CHINA.

MALAYSIA.

THE S.A.D.C. AND MARTIAL ARTS.

Wherefore, it is sounded that all the SADC Universities could collectively

host the Regional Intervarsity Games All Styles Karate Tournament, and

under the auspices of the;

CONFEDERATION OF UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES SPORTS ASSOCIATION

(CUCSA)

to uplift the goodwill and talents of the concerned Martial Artists. This

very enterprise could ultimately produce new career opportunities

particularly, when it extends to the entire African continent, under the

auspices of the Union of Africa Karate Federation. In the next

millennium, the University of Botswana will play a significant role

towards the teaching of Martial Arts as a formal subject to those who

would be taking up the Physical Education Diplomas or Degrees as is the

case in Japan, China and United States of America wherein Martial Arts

is a full time academic program in their Universities. The University of

Botswana does provide help to Martial Arts in many ways such as in the

holding of gradings and selection of national teams for the Zone Six and

All Africa Games.

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On the whole, what was observed from these Secondary Schools Karate

Championships was the fact that exceptionally good talent was identified,

moulded and made available. However and of great significance was that

these were not exploited for the international purposes and competitions.

Finally, after these National Championships that virtually meant the end

of everything until the next season.

At this juncture, it could be persuaded and prudently so, that the

Botswana National Sports Council, the Botswana Integrated Sports

Association and the Botswana Secondary Schools Education Department

could come together and harness these events and presented

opportunities. They could definitely select the best fighters, kata

performers and make a formidable national team of Secondary Schools

and send same to other countries such as Zimbabwe, Lesotho,

Swaziland, Zambia and Namibia to represent Botswana at regional level

and beyond.

It is without doubt that Martial Arts in Secondary Schools and

Universities in the Botswana context is now a reality to live with as a

sporting activity. An activity that which is supported by the

administration of respective schools and as a complementary aspect to

Sports and Physical Education. In these Secondary Schools constant

clinics, coaching and interaction was deemed vital so that the technical,

professional and ranking standards could be enhanced and harmonized.

Furthermore that sponsorship be accorded the capable young Martial

Artists in Botswana especially for the Africa Games and other

International Martial Arts Organizations and Games.

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CHAPTER TEN

THE RYUKYU ISLANDS

(OKINAWA 1372 AD)

THE DYNAMICS OF OKINAWA ISLANDS: OVERVIEW.

t is common cause that nearby Japan a chain of Islands existed and were known as the;

RYUKYU ISLANDS

and the largest of these Islands was called the Island of;

OKINAWA

These Islands were first discovered by Japan and over the years they

became the epicenter of trade amongst the neighbouring countries of;

JAPAN

PHILIPPINES THAILAND

INDONESIA

MALAYSIA CHINA

KOREA

These islands had political institutions and were governed by Kings. Our focus will be adverted to one such great King who was called;

KING SAITO OF OKINAWA

(1372 AD)

Who became a strong allay of China during the Ming Dynasty, and this association caused and precipitated the influx of Chinese settlers in the

Islands. By 1392 AD, many Chinese families had settled in the surrounding villages of;

NARA

Nara had another name which was Kume.

The impact that emanated from these new settlers were huge in that, many of them were exceptional in the context of education, cultural

skills, medicine, religion and so forth. However, one great exceptionality was the superb skill and knowledge of the martial arts system called;

CHUAN FA

I

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Which had root in the Shaolin Temples in China. The islanders in the Okinawa were taught Chuan Fa and over some time, the local people

called this new skill of martial arts;

KEN PO. Over generations many Okinawans studied the art of Chuan Fa in the

form of Kenpo. In recent decades some studied under grandmasters such as;

GRANDMASTER HSING-YI – TODE

GRANDMASTER TUNG-GEE HSING

Who were Chinese. These grandmasters taught individuals such as;

GRANDMASTER CHOKI MOTOBU

GRANDMASTER YASUTUME ANKO ITOSU GRANDMASTER ANKORO AZATO

GRANDMASTER SEKO MATSUMURA GRANDMASTER GICHIN FUKANOSHI

The imperative is to analyse the meaning of Kenpo, which is as following;

KEN MEANS THE FIST

PO MEANS THE LAW

Given the above, the inherent teachings skills and techniques founded in China were indigeneoused and overtime were renamed Karate.

THE KINGDOMS OF RYUKYU ISLANDS. The Ryukyu Islands were socially and politically vibrant, and there were

three great kingdoms which were;

THE NORTH KINGDOM CALLED HOKUZAN. THE MIDDLE KINGDOM CALLED CHUZAN. THE SOUTH KINGDOM CALLED NANZAN.

THE POLITICAL TRANSFORMATIONS OKINAWA

In 1492 dramatic political events occurred when an Okinawan man called;

SHO HASHI

United the three kingdoms and declared that the city of; SHURU

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become his capital after his death his son succeeded him and his name

was; SHO – SHI

this was in 1477 AD. When Sho-Shi took power he immediately banned all feudalism and the feudal lords who were called the;

ANJI

Were caused to come to the capital of SHURU to be under his constant vigilance. Furthermore, the new king banned the carrying and use of any

weapons save for the army. This then meant that the ordinary citizens had no weapons to use in the context of self defence. After these decrees the ordinary man became more focused on developing his Kenpo thus

using their bare hands and feet. Chuan Fa/Kenpo became intensely practiced and this ultimately led to the coining of the word;

KARATE

The meaning of Karate was contexted in the following;

KARA – EMPTY.

TE – HAND.

THE PROVINCE OF KARA IN CHINA The Province of Kara in China was very famous and distinguished in the

martial arts science. This Kingdom was revered through martial arts and the very knowledged leaked to Japan, Korea and Okinawa. Hence, this province was referred to as the source of barehand fighting systems and

the actual system was referred to as the;

EMPTY HAND OF KARA OR THE CHINESE HAND However, overtime the first interpretation gained notoriety and

momentum, thus the fact of common usage of the word;

KARA

to the present day. It must be noted that the Japanese subsequently

changed the Chinese Kanji that which read and meant the “Chinese Hands” to the one that read and meant “Empty Hands”. Notwithstanding this alteration it is agreed among the concerned that the original

meaning of Karate was definitely the;

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CHINESE FIST.

THE AGE OF DISTINCTIONS (1507 AD)

Reverting to Okinawa and King Sho-Shin, in 1507 AD he was celebrating his 30th Anniversary as a Ruler in Okinawa (1477 – 1626 AD). He

brought many good and great works in his reign and was revered as;

SHOSHIN O.

The works and achievements that he engineered were beyond compare and this thirty years of reign was referred to as;

THE AGE OF THE ELEVEN DISTINCTIONS.

THE EMERGENCE OF OKINAWATE

When the banning of weapons in Okinawa got effected, the ordinary man

resorted to the use of barehands and feet hence sophisticated methods of fighting were developed which became known as;

NAHATE. SHURITE. TOMARITE.

Each method as above shown took the city of which it were developed as

its name. The city of its origin became the root name of the style or method of such fighting. Collectively, these new styles or methods were called;

OKINAWATE

Another name for these styles was TODE. Conversely overtime, major innovations, refinements and additions were added into these styles and through such configurations the systems of Shurite and Tomarite

became known as the; SHORIN-RYU.

On the other hand, the transformation in the Nahate caused the renaming of the system to become;

SHOREI-RYU.

It must be noted that the present day Karate such as Shito Ryu, Shotokan, Kyokushinkai and others, derived their fundamental existence

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from Shorei-Ryu and Shorin Ryu because these two systems became their primary source.

THE INVASION OF OKINAWA

(1609 AD)

Okinawa Island was invaded twice but on the first invasion they

succeeded in defending the Island. In Japan there was the Satsuma clan which was led by;

DAIAMO SHIMAZU. This clan initiated the first invasion of Okinawa but got defeated because

the Okinawans gave a great resistance. However, this victory was short lived because a surprise invasion was relaunched and Japan became

victorious and ruled Okinawa. The Japanese immediately decreed that all weapons are banned. This

decree caused the local people to once more, resort to barehanded fighting art, secret societies and resistance movements. Given this

dispensation three great developments happened which were;

CHINA AND OKINAWA: Many Okiwanans were secretly sent out of

Okinawa to China. In China they studied Chinese Combat Arts. The most preferred province was that of Fukien Province. In this province the Chinese Kenpo was dominant.

MARTIAL ARTS: The martial arts knowledge that had been

acquired in China was transplanted into the systems of Shorin-Ryu and Shorei-Ryu. The dynamic impact of this process caused that these local system become beyond compare in exponentiality.

CULTURE: The Okinawans culture and martial arts of Shorei-Ryu

and Shorin-Ryu influenced that of the Japanese martial arts particularly the karate.

THE EMERGENCE OF KOBUJUTSU-DO

There were many people who did not go to China during the period of occupation. However, they nonetheless remained in Okinawa and

renovated, refined and trained martial arts. Prominently, they utilized the domestic implements and transformed these into a powerful and sophisticated science of fighting. They used ropes, chains, forks, bamboo

sickles and chains as the components and instruments of self defence. Outlastingly, a new science of martial arts was born and named;

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KOBUJUTSU-DO.

The science of Kobujutsu-Do became very unique in that it was versatile, popular, efficacious and dynamic. This was so because it viewed

everything to be a potential weapon and the mechanism of self defence. Given these pragmatic dimensions Kobujutsu-Do got sustained to this present day. Conversely, some of its greatest Grandmasters (without

excluding others) are windowed below:

GRANDMASTER MATEYOSHI SHIMPO.

GRANDMASTER SHINJO MASANOBU. GRANDMASTER TOMOYORI RYUKO.

GRANDMASTER YOBIKU MODEN. GRANDMASTER MIYAHIRA KATSUYA. GRANDMASTER NAKAZATO SHUGORO.

GRANDMASTER NAGAMINE SHOYSHIN. GRANDMASTER HIGA YUCHOKU.

GRANDMASTER UEHARA SEIKICHI. GRANDMASTER HIGA SEIKICHI.

THE KUBUJUTSU INTERNATIONAL JAPAN. The system of Kobujutsu-Do is all over the world and its international

body is as above mentioned. In Botswana it was introduced in 2005 by Sensei Thuto Thuto.

CHINA AND OKINAWA EXPANDED INTERACTIONS

During the occupation of Okinawa the Chinese people did not abandon the Okinawans. As earlier on indicated, they extended various forms of assistance. However, it must be pointed out that during the occupation,

the Okinawans enjoyed huge economic benefits. These came especially through the Province of Fukien, China.

Secondly, China extended a lot of military support and furthermore provided the military attaches.

These attaches were permitted in Okinawa. Out of these interactions the

Okinawans martial arts experts benefited. An instance is when they had occasion to meet the Chinese Military Officer named Kasanku. This officer was the envoy to the Okinawans Palace. Therein, he be friended a

palace guard called Sakugawa. He taught Sakugawa the system of Chuan-fa. Kasanku was an expert of great accomplishment(s) in martial arts. These teaching resulted in the dynamic transformations of

Okinawate and in evidence of this dispensation the following should be noted:

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Two distinct forms or kata were created in honour of Kasanku

(some called him Kushanku)

These two Katas were named;

KASANKU-SHO.

KASANKU-DAI.

However, the Japanese changed these names into KWANKU. On broader view, Okinawate martial arts was greatly influenced and

resourced from the various systems of;

CHINESE MARTIAL ARTS.

JAPANESE MARTIAL ARTS. BHUDDHISM/TAOSISM AND SHINTO.

MILITARY SKILLS. INGENUITY OF LOCAL PEOPLE. TECHNIQUES FROM OTHER NATIONS.

All the above mentioned, were integrated, compounded and defined the

intrinsic substance and nature of these martial arts. Overtime, Okinawate was transplanted into Japan and the prominent figure in this process was none other than;

GRANDMASTER GICHIN FUKANOSHI.

Who then renamed Okinawate as Karate then subsequently as;

SHOTOKAN KARATE DO.

It is from this system that other present day Karate styles emerged

through the process of speciation.

In Okinawa during the dynamic transformation in martial arts, many styles did emerge some of these martial arts styles were such as the following;

SEITO SHONAN. SHINDO JINEN.

SHIRIN MOTOBU-HA. MOTOBU RYU.

AND OTHERS.

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This development then caused much concern to the extent that the aspect of classification became urgent. It was found that the majority of

these new styles utilized the modified techniques of the original Shuri-Ryu Karate Do. Given this position, Grandmaster Seko Matumuka was

tasked to find a method of regulation and the classification emerged which was that;

SHURI-TE: THESE BEING THE SYSTEMS THAT KEPT AND PRESERVED THE AUTHENTICITY OF SHURI-RYU KARATE DO.

NAHA-TE: THESE BEING THE SYSTEMS THAT MODIFIED THE AUTHENTICITY OF SHURI RYU KARATE DO,

In the category of Naha-Te fell in these grandmasters;

Grandmaster Ankoro Azato. Grandmaster Yasutsume Anko Itosu.

Grandmaster Gichin Fukanoshi.

THE PRE-LEAD TO MODERN MARTIAL ARTS

It is common cause that modern martial arts are the offshoots of;

THE SHAOLIN TEMPLE CHUAN-FA.

Which overtime had underwent many dynamic transformations. It is also the common cause that the Okinawa Islands became the dynamic vortex, point of diversification and the source of the emergence of;

NAHATE. SHURITE.

SHORIN RYU.

SHOREI-RYU.

Then the overall collective systems of;

OKINAWATE.

This Okinawate was transplanted into Japan as of 1922. What is of significance is to note that, in Okinawa Island two prominent Chinese Masters of Martial Arts being;

GRANDMASTER HSING – YI-TODE GRANDMASTER TUNG-GEE-HSING

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Trained many Okinawan experts the martial arts and some of these prominent individuals were;

GRANDMASTER CHOKI MOTUBO.

GRANDMASTER YASUTUME ANKO ITOSU. GRANDMASTER ANKOKO AZATO. GRANDMASTER GICHIN FUKANOSHI.

These Chinese grandmaster at this point in time, were living at;

KUME-MURA.

Overtime, they developed a dynamic marital arts system which they called;

SHURI-RYU KARATE DO.

Given the fact of time and changes, Grandmaster Hsing-Yi-Tode and Tu-Gee-Hsing migrated and settled in Japan. Also Grandmaster Gichin Fukanoshi left Okinawa Islands and settled in Japan in 1922. In this

period the great transformation in martial arts occurred in Japan which ended up with the development of;

SHOTOKAN KARATE DO.

Which subsequently speciated into several new styles of martial arts especially in the period 1945 – 1950. It must be added that, in 1944 Grandmaster Choki Motobu passed away. He was then succeeded by

Grandmaster Yashuri Konichi, while his nephew, James Matosi went and lived in Hawaii. The crucial point to understand and appreciate is that after the;

SECOND WORLD WAR (1939-1945)

Martial arts in Japan exponentiated and got transplanted in the countries (continents) of;

AMERICA. ASIA.

AFRICA. EUROPE.

In fact that became a global phenomenah.

A point in focus is that of the American who learnt and mastered the martial arts of Shuri-Ryu Karate Do from Grandmaster Hsing-Yi-Tode

and Tu-Gee-Hsing being;

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GRANDMASTER ROBERT TRIAS

Who returned to America and began teaching Shuri Ryu Karate Do. On the fine note and end, the process of speciation in martial arts was at its

apex during these decades. Being on a different dimension and special consideration, it is a historical fact and truth that Okinawa hold the honour of being the birthplace of all modern karate styles. Conversely,

Japan holds the honour of having internationalized the karate systems throughout the whole world. On the otherhand, China is holding the special honour of being the craddle and mother of all martial arts in the

world.

THE FOUNDATIONS OF NINJU-TSU-DO (JAPAN)

But on a different dimension, it is on record that the Chinese Expatriots

who fled China in the political and social upheaval of the country and went to settle in the Islands of Japan. They found secure haven in the location of;

ISE.

KII.

Which were South of Nara, then the Province of Kyoto. The majority of

these expatriots were scholars, monks, traders, physicians, warriors and grand experts of martial arts. Consequently, they brought with them great wealth of knowledge;

RELIGIOUS

PHILOSOPHIES CULTURAL CONCEPTS

MEDICAL PRACTICES.

MILITARY STRATEGIES MARTIAL ARTS SCIENCE

All the above and were derived from the accumulated wisdom of China, India, Eastern Europe, Tibet and South East Asia. Of great significance

was the fact that this wealth of knowledge and wisdom was closely guarded and selectively taught to a few individuals. Then such a process became the source for the formation of secret societies in the era.

On further dimension and latitude, the Samurai Elite (class of warriors) within Japan took control of everything. Their rule was absolute in all

spheres. It is in the context of this absolute rule and control that the many people who were not content with this absolute dominance, began

to form the secret and subversive societies and association. These societies and associations trained its membership in the most effective and candlestine skills, techniques and whatsoever in the context of

intelligence. In essence, these societies and associations became and

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created a new martial Art system and culture the counter culture of the Samurai rule and power which was eventually named;

NINJUTSU DO.

The science of Ninjutsu became so expert, refined, highly specialized and sophisticated skill of its followers who were called the;

NINJAS, SONJAS;

This was the position in the greater region of;

IGA. KOGA.

in Japan, What is crucial to appreciate was the fact that these societies

and associations operated in absolute and or total secrecy. The nature and scope of their operation were swift, discreet and very thorough in execution. Consequently, due to their efficiency and anonymity they

became so much feared and revered throughout Japan and the world. The student(s) is persuaded to view the material of;

THE DOMINATION, NINJA. NINJA ASSASINS.

It is crucial to window some of their unique attributes and skills which were of notorious facts, and these are:

STEALTH. CONCEALMENT. SPEED.

DECISIVENESS. CUNNINGNESS. ESPIONAGE.

There were many skills that they had to master and utilized. Ultimately the

became a thoroughly trained breed of warriors. They became a unique land of their own, belonging only to their families of Ninjas such as for instance that of the;

TOGAKURE-RYU

Given the overall dispensation they lived in close clans in total secrecy. In this way, their teachings, techniques and skills were selectively passed from father

to son. It is in this context that they became the most powerful and feared power behind the scenes in the social structures of;

JAPAN

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This powerful status then prevailed for many centuries and a case in point is

that of the;

TOGAKURE-RYU NINJUTSU ORDER Which is more than eight hundred years old in Japan. This family today, is in

the 34th generation. Presently, much of its focus and role has been on these dimensions;

THE METHODS OF SELF PROTECTION. THE METHODS OF SELF DEVELOPMENT.

THE METHODS OF PRESERVATION OF THE CULTURE AND TRADITION OF NINJUTSU.

On the modern angle, the fathers of Ninjutsu are but few. However, the most distinguished one is;

Grandmaster Dr. Masaki Hatsumi who was taught Ninjutsu by the most revered and famous,

GRANDMASTER TOSHITSUGU TAKAMATSU. Who had spent many years in China perfecting the science of Ninjutsu. This

grandmaster ultimately gained the reputation of being known as the Mongolian Tiger. Currently, some of the greatest Grandmasters in modern times are

Grandmaster Richard Van Donk and Grandmaster Ashida Kimm.

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CHAPTER ELEVEN

THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SECONDARY SCHOOLS KARATE

CHAMPIONSHIP, LOBATSE (BOTSWANA) (1999)

he Oikado Martial Arts School had been organizing and managing the

secondary schools karate championships from 1989 to 1999, which

tournaments involved many secondary schools in Botswana. The

hosting of these events was rotational and the finals were alternating between

the North and the South of the country. The North and the South would hold

its regional championships and the winners would then meet their

counterparts at the finals. Prior to the National finals at Lobatse in 1999, the

North region held its championship as evidenced by the reproduced report.

This event penultimately matured and got manifested in the 10th Anniversary of

the Secondary School Karate Championship. For the record and in orbiter,

after 1999 these events were taken over by the Botswana Integrated Sports

Association in collaboration or association with the Botswana Karate

Association.

THE BOTSWANA SECONDARY SCHOOLS ANNUAL

KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

NORTH ZONE

HELD ON THE 19TH JUNE 1999 AT McCONNEL’S COLLEGE TUTUME

REPORT

On the 19th June 1999 the McConnel’s College situate at Tutume hosted the

North Zone Karate Championship. This tournament commenced at 10:00 am

and was concluded at 5: 00pm

1. THE PARTICIPANTS (TEAMS)

The Secondary Schools that participated were as following:

T

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1. LOTSANE SECONDARY SCHOOL.

2. MADIBA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

3. LOTLHAKANE SENIOR SECONDARY

SCHOOL.

4. MOENG COLLEGE SCHOOL.

5. MAUN SECONDARY SCHOOL.

6. MATSHEKGE HILL SECONDARY

SCHOOL.

7. MASUNGA SECONDARY SCHOOL.

8. FRANCISTOWN SENIOR

SECONDARY SCHOOL.

9. MATER SPEI SECONDARY SCHOOL.

10. SELEBI PHIKWE SECONDARY

SCHOOL.

11. MCCONNEL’S COLLEGE

2. THE TOURNAMENT COMMISSIONERS

The instructors present to assist and supervise the event were the following:

SENSEI MOSES RACANA KGOSIBODIBA.

SENSEI BONIFACE MOTLALEKGOSI.

SENSEI JONAH MADIBELA.

SENSEI TIZZA FESTUS TYIBILIKA.

SENSEI ABRAHIM THUSO MOSA.

SENSEI SAMUEL RAMAEBA.

SENSEI MICHAEL ODUETSE.

SENSEI DISANG CHA MONKGE.

SENSEI MODIRI MOOKETSI TAGWA.

SENSEI GAABADZO MOSEKI.

SENSEI MBINGANI MAGINA.

SENSEI GILBERT NKWE.

SENSEI VUSIMUZI SETLHARE.

KYOSHI PATRICK MAKGABENYANA.

3. OBSERVATIONS AND COMMENTS

a. The majority of team fighters did not have scoring power in relation to

the kick and punching technique.

b. The majority of placed fighters were novices (white belts) and therefore

lacked the necessary experience as fighters.

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c. Many points were failed because of lack of abrupt attack and

neutralization of the opponent in order to secure the advantage of

scoring.

d. When kicking, balance was the biggest problem but nonetheless there

was about 70% (seventy per cent) of kicking techniques.

e. Lack of punching and kicking pads for and during their/club training

contributed to lack of accuracy and power punch.

f. Though contest was full contact very few injuries were experienced and

this demonstrated the degree of carefulness of the exponents.

g. There was evidence of lack of footwork and rhythm which suggest that

majority of the contestants did not practice footwork techniques,

candence and sporadic foot attacks.

h. Many of the contestants showed that there was need for experienced

instructors who can polish them before these tournaments, nonetheless

the pugilistic exertion was very high and proved their effort in

preparation for the final tournament.

i. The spectators did express their appreciation of the event and did

encourage, applauded and enjoyed the main events.

j. There is need for North Zone clinic at least twice a year, this clinic to be

composed by representatives of concerned schools and teams.

4. OUTCOME OF THE EVENT

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Many of the teams were eliminated on the second division knock-out, the ones

that managed to reach the finalist division were the Mater Spei College,

Matshekge Hill Secondary School, McConnel’s College and, Madiba Secondary

School who therein had to fight for position one, two, three and four. The

overall result was as the following:

NAME OF SCHOOL TEAM POINTS POSITION

MATSHEKGE HILL SECONDARY SCHOOL 10.5 1

MCCONNEL’S COLLEGE 9.5 2

MATER SPEI COLLEGE 8.5 3

MADIBA SECONDARY SCHOOL 4.0 4

RUNNER: MASUNGA SECONDARY SCHOOL 3.0 5

5. CONCLUSION

The winners in this competition will meet their counter part (South Zone

Teams) in July 1999. The venue and date will be confirmed by the officials

concerned, all schools will be notified accordingly.

6. SPECIAL REMARKS

This year is the 10th Anniversary of the Secondary School Karate

Championship (1989-1999).

All the teachers responsible for the preparation of their Karate Teams, the

administers and head of schools which participated and spectators are duly

thanked on behalf of the Martial Arts Community in Botswana.

________________________________ _______________________________

PREPARED BY: SENSEI TYIBILIKA APPROVED BY: SENSEI RAMAEBA.

DATED AT LOBATSE ON THIS 26th DAY OF JUNE 1999.

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CC TO ALL THE SECONDARY SCHOOLS MENTIONED HEREIN AND TO

THE COMMISIONERS IN ATTENDANCE.

(117/OKD/TSS/TUTUME)

CELEBRATION OF KARATE TOURNAMENT

THE 10TH ANNIVESARY (1989-1999)

LOBATSE

The Secondary Schools All Style Karate championship celebrated its 10th

Anniversary (1989-1999) on the 11th July 1999. This occasion was held at

Lobatse, the venue being the St Mary’s Roman Catholic Hall (Tsopeng). Many

Secondary Schools were present including the dignitaries such as:

MR KITSO KEMOENG FROM BOTSWANA NATIONAL SPORTS

COUNCIL.

MR DICKSON GABANAKGOSI FROM DIRECTOR OF SPORTS AND

RECREATION.

MR EDMUND DLADLA FORMER PRESIDENT OF BOTSWANA

INTEGRATED SPORTS ASSOCIATION AND DIRECTOR OF SPORTS

AND RECREATION.

THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MAYOR’S OFFICE AND

EDUCATION DEPARTMENT IN LOBATSE.

THE KWAZULU NATAL MLAZI KYOKUSHINKAI KARATE SCHOOL

WAS REPRESENTED BY SENSEI DUMISILE GILBERT NHLAPO (3RD

DAN BLACK BELT).

The Ramotswa Choral Choir was present in the occasion with

their distinguished melodies.

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The sponsors of his occasion were the following business entities in Lobatse

and elsewhere;

WAYSIDE SUPERMARKET (LOBATSE).

EVERGREEN WHOLESALES (LOBATSE).

L.M. SUPERMARKET (LOBATSE).

KOBELA (PTY) LIMITED (LOBATSE).

BASHANKA ENTERPRISES (MOLAPOWABOJANG).

KGALAGADI BREWERIES (BOTSWANA) LOBATSE BRANCH.

J.B SPORTS (GABORONE).

SILFESTUS EXPORTS AND IMPORTS (PTY) LTD (GABORONE).

On the overall, the ultimate champions of this occasion were the following

schools;

MCCONNEL’S COLLEGE POSITION ONE (1).

MASUNGA SENIOR SEC. SCHOOL POSITION TWO (2).

FRANCISTOWN SENIOR SEC. SCHOOL POSITION THREE (3).

This occasion was attended by many people from the vicinity of Lobtase.

However, it is important to mention that in the year 2000 the Oikado Martial

Arts school ceased the task of organizing such events and in proof of this

position the following is substantiated as thus;

BISA HOLDS KARATE NATIONAL FINALS

Botswana Integrated Sports Association (BISA) is scheduled for the

National Finals For Karate this SATURDAY 16th August 2003 at Naresereto

Junior Secondary School in Gaborone. The tournament involves schools

selected in kata and Kumite from four different Zones…’ABRIDGED SOURCE:

MMEGI 15-21 AUGUST 2003.

It is envisioned that in the coming years, the baner of martial arts in the

schools would be vigorously embraced and supported through the contect of

organization such as the;

BOTSWANA TERTIARY SCHOOLS SPORTS ASSOCIATION.

(BOTESSA)

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THE CORPORATE ENTITIES AND SPONSORSHIP(S)

Martial Arts sporting codes in Botswana are now receiving some sponsorships

and contributions in kind from various business communities (companies).

This venture has encouraged the Martial Arts fraternity and is also assisting

the Botswana Government in its goal to make all sporting codes viable

financially and otherwise. This move by these companies clearly proved their

corporate social responsibilities, a condition that which was not existing in the

1970 decade due to the standard of economic development and perception

about sports then.

The Government is seriously advocating sports and she is bent on meeting the

goals of 2016 Vision. She is building wherever possible, sporting facilities,

sending sportsmen and women abroad for training and for various

international competitions and careers. One prominent sports patron in the

Government was the Vice President Lt. General Seretse Khama Ian Khama,

whose contribution towards the Sports Development was immense and

generous. Consequently and due to his significant contribution and Martial

Arts knowledge he was awarded status of Black Belt in Martial Arts.

Some of the many companies that helped directly and vicariously the Martial

Arts development and growth in Botswana, and with material and or financial

resources are companies such as the;

STANBIC BANK BOTSWANA.

KGALAGADI BREWERIES

(BOTSWANA).

FEDICS GROUP (BOTSWANA).

EVERGREEN WHOLESALERS

(LOBATSE).

WAYSIDE SUPERMARKET

(LOBATSE).

CHOPPIES (BOTSWANA).

HOME CORP (GABORONE).

L.M STORE (LOBATSE).

LESEDI SUPERMARKET

(LOBATSE).

BARLOWORLD GROUP

(BOTSWANA).

FIRST NATIONAL BANK

(BOTSWANA).

ORANGE WIRELESS BOTSWANA).

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162

MASTER PRINT (LOBATSE).

BOTSWANA LIFE (GABORONE).

RIVERWALK (GABORONE).

FIDELITY PRINT MARK

GABORONE).

MACK BAHUMA ATTORNEYS

(GABORONE).

STANDARD BANK CHARTERED

(BOTSWANA).

BASHANKA ENTERPRISES

(MOLAPOWABOJANG)

SILFESTUS EXPORT/IMPORT

(GABORONE).

DEBSWANA (BOTSWANA)

J.B SPORTS SHOP (BOTSWANA).

VISION PRESS (MMABATHO).

ITEKANELE MEDICAL AID

SCHEME (GABORONE).

SEGWANA BREWERIES

(LOBATSE).

RAYNOLDS AND YOUNG,

(BOTSWANA).

WESTERN UNION (BOTSWANA).

MASCOM WIRELESS

(BOTSWANA).

KGALAGADI BREWERIES TRUST.

BARCLAYS BANK (BOTSWANA).

BAYFORD & ASSOCIATES

(GABORONE).

SHELL OIL (BOTSWANA).

MAFUSI STORES(LOBATSE)

ITEKANELE MEDICAL AID

SCHEME (GABORONE)

and at most through the contributions and sponsorship made to Botswana

National Sports Council. This picture and trend is very much appreciated and

it has marked a sharp contrast to the 1970 and 1980 decade when the then

existing companies were closed handed towards the sporting code and the

economic growth of the country not permitting such indulgences.

MARTIAL ARTS AND THE DESCIPLINED FORCES IN BOTSWANA

The Martial Arts system of Shito-Ryu, Shotokan-Ryu are well entrenched in the

army, police and the prisons more so that these institutions are the major

employers of school leavers and specialist personnel. The individuals who

joined these institutions had trained their martial arts from their junior, senior

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163

secondary schools and tertiary education. In the Botswana Defence Force there

are several distinguished Martial Arts Clubs such as the;

THEBEPHATSHWA KARATE CLUB.

SIR SERETSE KHAMA BARRACKS KARATE CLUB.

SHUKOKAI KARATE CLUB.

FRANCISTOWN THEBE KARATE CLUB.

GLEN VALLEY SHUKOKAI KARATE CLUB.

SAMURAI KARATE CLUB.

S.S.G KARATE CLUB.

AND OTHER ASSOCIATIONS OF STYLE PREFERENCE.

These clubs inter-alia, are members of the Botswana Karate Association. The

army is therefore, the best module of distributing the Martial Arts knowledge

since it is covering the whole country and has the best resources and training

facilities than any other institution in the Country. Conversely, the Army has

produced some of the best Martial Arts Practitioners over the past thirty years.

These very clubs participated in the Zone Six Games and in the International

Military Games which are controlled by the International Military Sport Council

(I.M.S.C) and where in Botswana teams excelled with good impression. The

oldest Martial Artist in the Botswana Defence Force was Sensei Louis

Matshwenyego Fisher who commenced his Martial Arts career in the early 1970

-1980 under the then BLAKADO Shukokai Club. Today he is the patron of the

Shukokai Martial Arts. There are other many young martial arts practitioners

in the army who will in the future acquire lucrative and beneficial careers

through martial arts especially if they integrate same with Physical Education

programmes from the University of Botswana or elsewhere. On the other hand,

in the Botswana Police Force, Martial Arts is very much old encouraged and

prevalent especially at the Botswana Police College. Same has its own Karate

Clubs which are aligned along the prevailing styles of Martial Arts and they

relate well with other Clubs. In the Botswana Police Force some of the most

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prominent and veteran Martial Artists are the respected, Sensei Nunu Lesetedi

and Sensei Lesego Baruti. These men had commenced their Martial Arts

careers in the 1970 decade in the Tsosamotse Karate Do and were trained by

various oriental instructions later on were under the guidance and mentorship

of Kyoshi Makgabenyana. Their unique and vast experience and exponentiality

has advantaged many Martial Arts aspirants and exponents in this institution.

Consequently, some of the best and seasoned progenies and practitioners

found in these institutions were:

SENSEI K.L GABAAKE.

SENSEI M. RADIPODI.

SENSEI M. SEJWE.

SENSEI K. KETSHAJWANG.

SENSEI O. MORUTLWA.

SENSEI S. SEEDI.

SENSEI A.K BOBEBE.

SENSEI V.B PALEDI.

Who continued maintaining and enhancing the Martial Arts capability

and integrity in this force. In the Prison Institution there are prominent

Martial Artists of similar stature and who are committed to Martial Arts.

Martial Arts are very important to these institutions because the science

relates squarely to the prerequisites of physical fitness, discipline and

nourishment of the spirit of total dedication to ones duty. The

abovementioned Martial Arts schools in the army, police and prisons do

hold tournaments and even select national teams under the auspices of

the Botswana Karate Association, Botswana Kofukan Federation thus

under the umbrella of the Botswana National Sports Council. This

position and fact could be supported and evidenced by the reproduced

and summarized report:

THE BOTSWANA KARATE ASSOCIATION KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

TOURNAMENT, HELD PELENG COMMUNITY CENTRE, LOBATSE ON

THE 8TH MAY 1999 (ABRIDGED).

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Objective: Selection of Team for the Zone Six Games in Namibia (1999).

TEAMS PRESENT

SIR SERETSE KHAMA BARRACKS KARATE CLUB.

GLENVALLEY KARATE CLUB.

SHOTOKAN KARATE CLUB.

SHOKOKAI KARATE CLUB.

FRANCISTOWN THEBE KARATE CLUB.

SELEBI PHIKWE KARATE CLUB.

SAMURAI KARATE CLUB.

S.S.G KARATE CLUB AND,

THEBEPHATSHWA KARATE CLUB.

TOURNAMENT OFFICIALS (On Diverse Capacities)

SENSEI UNION KGAFELA.

SENSEI GAVEY KGATHI.

SENSEI CHRIS MOSHAOKE.

SENSEI MOMPATI KWATI.

SENSEI MILLION MASUMBIKA (MC).

CONTENTS OF TOURNAMENTS

Kata and Kumite for male and female divisions.

Conclusion: The winners will proceed to the next selection process to

determine a team to represent Botswana in the 7th All Africa Games

(1999) in South Africa.

Therefore, once these teams have been selected, they would participate in

the Zone Six Games, All Africa Games and other International Martial

Arts Competitions which are overseas and this would be amplified in the

subsequent discussions.

In order to appreciate and as a matter of fact, in future it is important to

accelerate the quality of martial arts, to produce national champions

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from many inter styles, the all styles martial artS championships are

vital and of urgent need. The imperative is to hold them every year under

the thematic nature of:

THE ALL STYLES MARTIAL ARTS TOURNAMENTS

rather than to continue with the system of closed styles tournaments,

which has been the case in past twenty eight years. To substance this

persuasion and point of view, one is obliged to cite Grandmaster

Masatoshi Nakayama:

[T]he greatest improvement is the worldwide support I have received

everywhere, including that from Sensei Enoeda KUGB, and its has

been most helpful towards world karate expansions.

My two worries are: 1. A lot of people only use one style of fighting

and there is not enough competition with other styles of fighting to

learn some of their ways. 2. The winner or looser of a competition

now requires much greater skills because it has become more

difficult to be able to judge the subtle differences between

competitors; improved techniques and skills” ABRIDGED SOURCE: OFFICIAL

PROGRAMME OF WORLD SHOTOKAN CUP 1990: ORGANIZED BY THE KARATE UNION OF GREAT

BRITAIN: (INTERVIEW).

In context to the above expressed sentiments, Martial Art diversity as

opposed indiversity can be of great benefit to the quality of Martial Arts

in Botswana when skills are shared, evaluated and compared through

such tournaments.

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CHAPTER TWELVE

THE FOUNDATION OF MARTIAL ARTS IN JAPAN: OVERVIEW

(1185 AD)

THE ANCIENT MARTIAL ARTS POSITION IN JAPAN

he significance of this synopsis is to provide a window and

overview of the martial arts in Japan, from the point of antiquity.

For the record, martial arts in Japan dates as far as 50BC but for

the present essay academic convenience the year of 1185AD has been

chosen as the starting point. The purpose of the analysis is to

demonstrate the issue of style speciation and that it has been a common

feature and phenomena through out the ages.

Conversely, our focus will commence with the style of Jui Jutsu which

ultimately became the vital source of all the present day martial arts

including karate. The concise of its nature and progression will be

detailed below with the hope of making the practitioners of martial arts

aware of the dynamic relationship within styles or systems of martial

arts.

THE BIRTH OF JUI JUTSU MARTIAL ARTS

In ancient days before the word Jui Jutsu was coined most the typical

and traditional form and format of close range combat especially for the

horseman was called;

THE ART OF KUMI UCHI RYU

This form of training and engagement was very crucial to be acquired

and mastered, it involved the horseman in the battlefield who when

T

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dismounted by design or accident, could be able to wrestle and defeat the

enemy at very close range. Sometimes this was so when the horseman or

warrior has lost his weapon in the course of such confrontation.

Overtime, this system became known as;

YAWARA:

The warrior class called the Samurai were very good and the best

masters ever of this unique art and on this point the student is

persuaded to see the visual material called the Last Samurai.

Consequently, other forms of Yawara began to emerge and with impactful

dynamics, and these were the Kogusoku Ryu, Koshi Mawari Ryu to

mention but a few. When Kumi Uchi Ryu (Yawara) gained more

sophistication, the inevitability became that it was renamed Jui Jutsu

Do.

THE ART OF JUI JUTSU DO.

After the birth of Jui Jutsu the concept became the generic or general

name for all similar Arts. The definement, nature and characteristics of

Jui Jutsu Do became the fundamental aspect of;

Yielding and manipulating the opponent or enemy with dramatic

finesse, ease and sophistry.

The essential linkage to the skills and aspects of the techniques of

war (Buge).

Achieving the objective of effective engagement at very close range

with expert efficiency and resilience in the shortest time possible.

Given the above quality and mandatory dispensation many modern

Martial Arts made it a fundamental arterial objective and preference that

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such knowledge be incorporated into the core of their main style.

Especially for those styles which are ninety percent dependant on the

long range engagement through kicking and punching. Consequently,

the system of Jui Jutsu Do became the second vital component of the

main style so that the practioner can engage with the dimension of

roundedness, comprehensively and accomplishment more precisely in

the formats of Kata.

THE EMERGENCE OF OIKIRU RYU MARTIAL ARTS

It is important and profound to point out this, the bulk of the Jui Jutsu

techniques were actually sourced from the Shaolin Temple (China) as far

back as in the period of 495 BC. They were modified in order to suite the

appropriate international and local needs. Thus the indigenous wisdom,

skills and preferences became the absolute determining factor of

adaptability and exponentially.

As a matter of fact, through the process of continuous adaptability

modification, much of Jui Jutsu styles that are practiced today in the

whole world are numerous and profoundly unique. Some of these

systems have their own grandmasters who are of great repute skill and

wisdom.

THE ART OF DAITO RYU AIKI JUI JUTSU

(1185-133AD)

This martial arts was founded in Japan by General Shinka Saburo

Yoshimitsu. This was further transformed in another tradition who was

called the Take No Uchi Ryu.

THE ART OF TAKE NO UCHI RYU

(1532 AD)

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This martial arts was founded by Prince Toichiro Hisamori Takeuchi. On

the same vain grandmaster Mosatari Yanani founded the traditional style

of Tenji Shinyo Ryu.

THE ART OF TENJI SHINYO RYU

For the record and clarity to the reader and student, Grandmaster

Miyamoto Mushashi was the greatest swordsman ever in Japan. Given

the overall position and dispensation of the above, the final dimensional

outcome became the fact that two Ancient Jui- Jutsu Schools emerged

being;

THE YOISHIN RYU THE SHIN NO SHINTO RYU

Overtime, greater sophistication was ingrained in these of Jui Jutsu

systems and the ultimate product became the emergence of the profound

systems that became known as the, Oikiru Ryu Jui Jutsu Do.

THE ART OF OIKIRU RYU JUI JUTSU DO

This profound system underwent the spectrum of speciation and infusion

with other martial arts by the relevant student/ members and masters

thus then the emergence of the unique systems known as;

OIKIRU RYU NINJUTSU

OIKIRU RYU KEMPO KARATE DO

OIKIRU RYU KARATE JITSU DO

OIKIRU RYU JU JUJITSU DO

OIKIRU RYU TAI JITSU DO

OIKIRU RYU GOJU KEMPO KARATE DO

OIKIRU RYU JUJUTSU BUGEI DO

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The above systems were classically classified as of the Kodokan School or

Traditional and based in Osaka. In the pursuit of the style excellence and

case in the point was that of Professor John Dewey of Colombia

University who went to Japan in 1919. In Japan he was under the

Kodokan School (Ryu) where he studied the dynamic aspects of Jui

Jutsu, Judo and the entire Oikiru Ryu Jui- Jutsu Do.

In 1935 Professor H. Olsers, a disciple of Grandmaster. Prof John Dewey,

carried on the work and in New Jersey (USA) he founded the Oikiru Ryu

Martial Arts Systems which at that, time were almost non-existent.

Grandmaster Rod Sachamoski eventually formed the Juko Ryu.

Currently, the head of all the Oikiru Ryu Systems in the Western

Hemisphere is the aforementioned Grandmaster Rod Sachamos

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CHAPTER THIRTEEN

THE INTERNAL DYNAMICS IN MARTIAL ARTS (BOTSWANA)

THE ACQUISITION OF PROSPECTIVE SYSTEMS OF MARTIAL ARTS.

vertime, it became evident that Botswana was gradually

acquiring news forms of Martial Arts styles (systems) due to

two important dynamics, which were the immigration and

external scholarship of students. On the point of immigration Botswana

experienced a great influx of people who came into the country because

of many reasons. The result became the emergence of new martial arts

systems that added on the diversity of styles. On the other hand, the

Ministry of Education and Skills Development sent local students to

various international academic institutions (Universities) wherein some

of them acquired new exposure and learning in different martial arts

systems. The overall impact was that all these styles converged in the

country. The findings of the Oikado Strategic Committee found that due

to the rapid economic developments, immigration, international

scholarship of Batswana students, the international exposures of current

martial artists in Botswana, by the year 2016 -2020 Botswana will have

the following new styles of martial arts as below mentioned, thus

breaking the aspect of indiversity in Botswana’s martial arts culture:

MUGENDO.

GOJU RYU KARATE DO.

YOISHIN- JUTSU DO.

RYUSHIN KAN KARATE DO.

SHURI – KEMPO RYU

PAQUA - CHANG

SMALL CIRCLE JU JUTSU

DO.

SHINJI RYU KARATE DO.

TENSHIN RYU KARATE DO.

RYOBO KAI KARATE DO.

GAVEN JU- JUTSU DO.

O

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SEIDO KAN KARATE DO.

JU JU TSU DO.

TAI CHI KUNG FU.

TAEKWON DO.

KENDO.

KOBOKAN KARATE DO.

KYOKUSHINKAI KARATE

DO.

TENSHIKAN KARATE DO.

CHOI KWAN – DO.

YOISHINKAI KARATE DO.

NINJUTSU.

TANG SOO DO.

KOBUJITSU KEMPO.

IAIDO

YOISHINKAN KOBUJUTSU

DO.

KEMPO KARATE DO.

GOJU KAI KARATE DO.

KOKONDO KARATE DO.

SHAOLIN WUSHU MARTIAL

ART

WADO RYU KARATE DO.

UECHI KARATE DO.

ABRIDGED SOURCE: REPORT OF THE 8TH OIKADO STRATEGIC STUDIES COMMITTEE, MAHALAPYE,

BOTSWANA 1993.

The forecast was landmarked for the period from 2000-2020 AD, and its

intensification was going to be influenced substantively by the rapid

industrialization and foreign investment in the country. Conversely, the

martial arts diversity will be huge, precipitated and providing optimal

benefit to all the students of martial arts. Other countries will reach a

dynamic point of offering scholarship of martial arts to the Batswana

aspirants and provide financial resources for the development of their

careers in martial arts. Consequently, all these dynamics will overtime,

ultimately change and redefine the future landscape and complexion of

martial arts in Botswana.

THE EROSION OF INDEVERSITY IN MARTIAL ARTS

These developments and trends shall and will be having the overall and

extended impacts in that, more students will have ample choice and

access to different martial arts mentors, clubs, schools and thus

reducing the prevalent Mono-Culture and indiversity of current styles in

the country.

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However on the other hand, such development will deflate and shatter

the long misconceived aptitude and view that Botswana was basically

and entirely a country of Shukokai Ryu, Shito- Ryu and Shotokan Ryu.

Another factor that which complements the above postulation on

diversity is the fact that, many young Martial Artists are currently

pursuing their undergraduate programme outside Botswana. Once these

students become exposed to new ideas, new styles and new instructors

that would transform their mindsets, outlooks, understanding and

preferences. On being transformed, in the long term they would gain

international perspectives and embracing new martial arts styles and

viewpoint.

THE DIVERSIFICATION OF MARTIAL ARTS (BOTSWANA)

The concept of martial arts diversification in Botswana is not new, it is

only that some do actually deny its existence and beneficiality for

reasons best known to them and convenience to their self-interests.

Whatever the future position and conditions in the country would be, the

Sports Authority should endeavor as much as is possible to consider the

point of equity and interest and needs of the many Martial Arts Schools

and Styles in Botswana.No school, association and federatin should have

the ultimate monopoly of resources and opportunities. This postulation

is rendered imperative, urgent and vital in that some martial artists and

schools had been greatly prejudiced and disadvantages for more than

twenty seven (27) years and are still being marginalized in terms of

resources and benefits from the Botswana National Sports Council to

this present day. This fact comes about because the Botswana Karate

Association opinionated and stanced itself, in that anything that which is

not termed Shito Ryu, Shotokan, Shukokai is anathema, it is not Karate

nor Martial Arts. Let alone the fact that Karate per-se has more than one

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hundred different versions or systems. This aptitude does not take into

full account the dynamics of Martial Arts diversity and veracity. This

point is stated as an alert signal to the relevant authorities and future

sporting codes which will also undergo and experience such deprivation,

prejudice and bias, as others have endured for so many years. Currently,

Botswana has got these bodies;

BOTSWANA KARATE ASSOCIATION.

KOFUKAN FEDERATION.

MABONI SHITO RYU FEDERATION.

BOTSWANA JUDO ASSOCIATION.

HAYASHI-HA SHITO RYU ASSOCIATION.

JAPAN KARATE ASSOCIATION.

And through these bodies Botswana was able to prepare and send her

National Karate Teams to compete and represent her in the international

forum of Asia, Europe, America and Africa.

THE WOMEN AND MARTIAL ARTS (BOTSWANA)

Since the beginning of time women have been the driving force in the

achievement of men and society. Women in Botswana contributed

significantly and pervasively towards the development, growth and the

achievements of Martial Arts in the country. The participation of women

was direct and indirect overtime. When their contribution is not

acknowledged that would be the evidence of moral deficit and delinquent

ingratitude on the Martial Artists. When we are sincere and owning this

very crucial point and contributions, our gratitude would be out flowing

without hesitation. In all the dimensions and spheres of martial arts

development in the country, women had proved to have been the

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essential strong and silent pillars of our martial arts especially behind

the scenes. Even then, some women were directly involved in the;

Administration of martial arts.

Tournaments and grading activities.

Fund raising activities.

Management of resources for the martial arts school.

Preparations of tournaments.

The majority of the women unselfishly gave all their support and

participation in various spheres, portfolios and capacities which were

beneficial to the martial artists in the country. It was through these

shared vision, efforts and contributions by these special people that our

local Martial Arts began to rise and excel in their various abilities and

specialization in Martial Arts. Given the above, this chapter is adroitly

dedicated to the woman in our country, and it becomes special tribute

from our martial arts fraternity unless otherwise minded. They are fully

and implicitly acknowledged by virtue of these proceedings. It is without

doubt that our women in Botswana, with their very special dedication

and devotion were motivated, stimulated, and invigorated by the sense of

gratitude and of the love of sports and in particular the Martial arts. In

the context of Oikado Martial Arts School, many women helped the

school to survive and sustain itself and as tribute for that, a roll has

been made in their honour and as empirical evidence and representation

of some of the women who contracted themselves into the spheres and

aspects of management, teaching, organization and propagation of

martial arts in Botswana. This position is demonstrated in the structural

systems of;

Female Kata Competition

Female Kumite Competition

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Female Refereees Courses

Female Coaching Seminars.

On a finer note, it is important to motivate young women to effectively

participate and engage in the learning and training of the Martial Arts.

This persuasion is underscored because of the high rate of crime and

violence against women in our society. If women are armed with the

superior knowledge and skills of self defence, their condition and position

of vulnerability will be reduced quantumly. On the whole having

observed the progression as above mentioned, it is hoped that in the near

future ( next millennium) there would be dojos schools of martial arts

owned and manned by female martial artists as in other countries in the

world. That then, would be a huge breakthrough and development that

would be most welcomed and aspired for our fraternity.

THE SHIFTINGS OF STUDENTRY IN THE STYLES.

The Oikado Strategic Committee Studies (15th December 1991) done at Gaborone, Maun, Francistown, Serowe, Selebi Phikwe and Lobatse

pointed out the following shifting of membership trends precisely after the advent of Shito Ryu Karate Do.

SHUKOKAI KARATE SYSTEM – 35% SHITO RYU KARATE SYSTEM – 10%

SHOTOKAN KARATE SYSTEM – 20% OIKIRU RYU KARATE JITSU DO. – 30% OTHER SYSTEMS – 5%

The above indicated that the scope and measure of practice and studentry attached to the systems was not stable due to several variants

in martial arts. However, the abovementioned baseline got disturbed and varied with the advent of new systems such as the;

Yoishinkai Kobujutsu Do. Ryushin Kan Karate Do.

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Which then took a sizeable number of students into their mainstream. This trend and development will continue to exist in the future and a

case in point is in the context of the Oikado Martial Arts School.

The Oikado Martial Arts School has been offering three dimensions of martial arts system which were;

KARATE KUNG FU. JUI-JUTSU.

Given the fact of diversification of martial arts many students had an

optimal opportunity of choice and specialization. Therefore, the Oikado Strategic Committee (2006) resolved that the area of Kung fu martial arts should be expanded as that of Karate. Then overtime the Kung Fu and

Jui-Jutsu Do dimension shall be attentioned too.

On this motion Kyoshi Racana Moses Kgosibodiba was commissioned and mandated to establish the links with other Kung Fu institutions. He then got connected with;

GRANDMASTER RIQUILER BANTHOUND

Of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This linkage was vital because Grandmaster Banthound stewarded the main body of;

THE AFRICAN KUNG FU WUSHU FEDERATION

which body was under the overall governance of the mother body being;

THE CHINA INTERNATIONAL WUSHU FEDERATION (IWUF/IWF)

Consequently, this development resulted in the creation of the;

BOTSWANA KUNG FU WUSHU FEDERATION.

The Botswana Kungfu Wushu Federation became guided by Kyoshi Kgosibodiba Moses Racana, who also represented Botswana in Libya (9th

– 15th September 2009). It is hoped that the Karate wing of Oikado Martial Art School will forge stronger links with the Koshiki Karate Do

Federation in the coming years. On similar stream the Jui-Jutsu dimension of Oikado Martial Art School will forge ties with the International Ju Jutsuans Federation in the future. It is hoped that

Botswana will benefit more in the future from the CHINA INTERNATIONAL WUSHU FEDERATION AND WUSHU MASTERS ASSOCIATION (CHINA).

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THE IMPACTS OF MARGINALISATION AND INFIGHTS (MARTIAL

ARTS)

It is common cause that the Botswana Karate Association has excluded many styles outside its kraal on the basis of stylism and preference of styles. This process and point was started with the Oikiru-Ryu-Karate-

Jitsu-Do (Oikado) and was extended to other system the latest being the Ryushinkan Karate Do and the Yoishin Kobujutsu Do; to substance this view the following is submitted;

[S]ensei Dobolo faced an uphill battle when he tried to register his

style with the local karate body Botswana Karate Association (BOKA)…….. Sensei Dobolo became an instructor and introduced Ryushin Kan in the local scene, breaking rank with his former

club… This did not go down well with other BOKA members and Ryushinkan secretary general Tshepo Dipatane said, goal posts were

shifted whenever they tried to register with the association…..’ ABRIDGED SOURCE: DAILY SPORTS MONDAY NOVEMBER 23, 2009 NO. 220.

In retrospect, on the 16th June 1999 the Executive Committee of the Oikado Martial Arts School (Botswana) held a meeting at the BNSC office Gaborone, with the representation of the Botswana Karate Association in

the context of;

SHIHAN MOSES RACANA KGOSIBODIBA AND SHIHAN TIZAR

FESTUS TYIBILIKA FOR THE OIKADO MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL.

MR. SEISA MOOKODI FOR THE BOTSWANA NATIONAL

SPORTS COUNCIL.

SENSEI MILLION MASUMBIKA, SENSEI GEOFF THEMBO AND

SENSEI OREBOTSE MPHO MOPHUTING FOR BOKA. The Oikado delegation premised its submission on these grounds:

Botswana was growing in the field of martial arts and

therefore all different styles must be accorded equal and fair

share of opportunities, resources and support from the Government, BNSC and BOKA.

The exclusion of other styles from BOKA by BOKA caused

extreme prejudice to the vast members so excluded on the

basis of style difference. Furthermore, those who are so

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excluded are actual taxpayers, their parents are tax payers and yet cannot secure any benefit from that fact.

That as taxpayers are entitled to be recipients of benefits, and

opportunities that are offered by the government via the Botswana National Sports Council. It was wrong to deny anyone of such a right and benefit.

That all clubs of Martial Arts are with a right to be assisted by

the Government, National Sports Council in the development

of their preferred system of martial arts. They should not be barred from such beneficiation because of the views and

sentiments of others.

That it was wrong, skewed and irrelevant to deprive huge

numbers of martial art students of different styles of whatever benefits and opportunities that the government offered on the

basis of stylism and non-affiliation to BOKA. The long and short of it all, was that the meeting became a sad episode

in the Botswana’s martial arts history in that the BOKA representative rejected everything. This marked the era of the iron curtain in the martial arts of Botswana. Despite this status of marginalization the Oikado

Martial Arts School (Botswana) got sustained through the resources provided by members of the public, parents of students and instructors

to this present date. The aftermath of the 16th June 1999 meeting motivated the Oikado

Martial Arts School, which consulted other marginalized Schools of Martial Arts and all agreed that a martial art body of National framework was needed, which will not discrimanate and deprive anyone on the basis

of style difference and association.

The adverse impacts of such deprivation was clarioned eloquent as thus; [S]ince they were not affiliated to BOKA it was difficult for the new

style to receive funds from Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC) hence lack of participation at international events, and furthermore,

the Ryushinkan athletes could not be drafted into the national team….”ABRIDGED SOURCE: BOTSWANA DAILY NEWS, DAILY SPORT, MONDAY NOVEMBER 23,

2009 NO. 220.

The other adverse impact on the landscape and complexion of Botswana’s Martial Arts is that, the aptitude and position of BOKA

against other styles, is to thwart and frustrate the process of martial arts diversification in Botswana. But for now, the masters of tomorrow will

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emerge and be rethinking differently from the present. At this juncture, one is minded to echoe the position of the Botswana founding fathers of

martial arts:

[B]LAKADO contends that, when all is said and done, “KARATE IS KARATE” irrespective of the style. Furthermore, if an individual is good he is good no matter where he trains…” ABRIDGED SOURCE: A HANDBOOK

OF KARATE, BLAKADO, PUBLISHED MARCH GABORONE, 1980.

Wherefore, it is against this crystalised background that for the past

twenty eight years the Oikado Martial Arts School (Botswana) has never received any form of assistance from the Botswana National Sports Council and never participated in the Botswana Karate Association

events. This marginalization caused solidarity and inspiration to all the Oikado Martial Arts studentry:

[T]hose strong winds that hit hard are not really enemies. They help to integrate you. They look as if they will uproot you but in fighting

with them you become rooted….” ABRDGED SOURCE: GRANDMASTER SAO SENZO

YAMADA, OIKIRU-RYU KARATE JITSU DO, DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA, 1966.

THE PROLIFERATION OF MARTIAL ARTS FEDERATIONS IN BOTSWANA

When Botswana’s martial arts entered the era of diversification, the contours of such development meant that the dramatic and long lasting

changes were to occur in the landscape of martial arts. The need for diversification was largely prompted by the internal conflicts with the organization of BOKA, and the fact of external and international

exposure of many students precipitated the process. Inevitably, within the BOKA structures the big bang occurred which resulted in the

breakaway of many individuals. These individuals began to form new association and federations in the context of the;

BOTSWANA SHOTOKAN KARATE FEDERATION. WORLD SHOTOKAN KARATE FEDERATION.

INTERNATIONAL SHOTOKAN KARATE FEDERATION. SHOTOKAN KARATE INTERNATIONAL. BOTSWANA KOFUKAN FEDERATION.

BOTSWANA SHITO RYU FEDERATION. BOTSWANA RENSHINKAN FEDERATION. HAYASHI-HA-SHITO RYU BOTSWANA.

SANKUKAI FEDERATION. KIMURA SHUKOKAI INTERNATIONAL, BOTSWANA.

SHUKOKAI SHITO RYU INTERNATIONAL. GOJU RYU FEDERATION.

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BOTSWANA YUISHINKAI KOBUJUTSU FEDERATION.

The above mentioned associations and federations were respectively under the stewardship of the following instructors;

SENSEI SOLLY NAGENG. SENSEI MARTIN CHIPUZA.

SENSEI MILLION MASUMBIKA. SENSEI ANDREW DOBOLO. SENSEI SELLO SOCCA MORUAKGOMO.

SENSEI OTENG NKWE. SENSEI NANCY HORENBURG.

SENSEI THEBE MOLEFE. SENSEI UNION KGAFELA. SENSEI MPHO BAKWADI.

SENSEI OOKEDITSE MALESU. SENSEI THUTO THUTO.

It is anticipated that by end of the year 2009 and 2010 many more similar entities will emerge. Notwithstanding this position, when right

thinking is applied in the context of the above spectrum, crucial and critical questions do emerge in that;

What quality dimensions and value will so many associations and federations bring to the martial arts landscape in Botswana?

What are the current and future impacts on the national

resources, human and financial and institutionally?

What changes of mindsets, philosophies and repositions, and

forward thinking will come out from the whole enterprise?

By what stretch of imagination, fact, reality and truth will such a

conglomerations of entities be different and free from the hamstrings of their derivative body and exclusiveness philosophy. Given the reality that an apple seldom falls down far away from

its tree.

However, it is conceded that the process formations of new associations and federations cannot be halted nor avoided. It is going to grow exponentially due to fact that more new systems of martial arts would be

incoming. Once they are within Botswana, new entities will emerge as of right and common cause. Therefore, it is envisaged that, the future masters of martial arts in Botswana will ultimate found and adopt the

wisdom of creating the;

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CONFEDERATION OF MARTIAL ARTS

So as to regulate the various interests and interactions nationally, regionally and internationally.

THE FUTURE VISION AND PENDULATIONS.

It is opined and in orbiter for that matter, in the future the Government should effectively assist and spearhead the construction and existence of the;

NATIONAL MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMIES.

NATIONAL MARTIAL ARTS INSTITUTE(S).

Because these bodies are vital when it comes to professionalisation of the

discipline and for creating employment opportunities for the many in the future. It must be ventilated and envinced that the above mentioned

questions and or postulations are not at all, intended whatsoever to be vain, cynical and or judgemental but to be the constructive baseline. They are but raised in the point of curiosity from a far thinking mind.

It is common cause that in this train of thinking the main objective is not to cause an affront, divisiveness and or discouragements. The point is

simply this, to provoke the aspect of forward thinking befitting and beneficial, contained with critical evaluation of trends of the past and

present. It is conceded rightfully so, that the answers may not be found in the present but rather in the future thereby the generation(s) yet to come shall be in a position to say so, not us. Conversely, our humble

position and postulation is this, for the moment these issues should not at all, cause anyone any immediate contestations, confrontations and dissolutions. This is so because it was vital that they should be raised

rather than to be glossed over, and thus repeating the inequities of the past under the pretext of ignorance and ambiguities.

On humble parlance, the aptitude and postulation of the Oikado Martial Arts School regarding the multiplicities of associations and federations is

rather simplistic and of common sense without logic dislocation. Given the existing undercurrent infightings and hostilities within the martial

arts fraternity, there is no cut right solution. It is also noted that the status quo will create the process of endless emergence of associations and federations, and to what end?

The position of the Oikado Martial Arts School as fathomed from its teachings, principles and philosophy is this, it is only through the

attainment of deeper awareness and knowledge of what it takes to be and involved in being a truthful, sincere and sublimed martial artists. It is

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profound knowledge that can salvage everyone from the current quagmire.

Therefore, the short and long of it is this, the true answer lies not in the

aspects of;

FEDERATIONS AND ASSOCIATIONS.

FAME AND POPULATION OF STUDENTS THAT ONE HAS.

TOURNAMENTS AND GOLD MEDALS THAT HAD BEEN WON AND BROUGHT INTO THE COUNTRY.

BEING A CHAMPION BREEDER AND OR THE MOST AND HIGHEST RANKED INSTRUCTOR.

BEING PHENOMENAL AND OF GREAT STATUS IN THE REALMS OF MARTIAL ARTS.

The ultimate and fundamental answer is found and grounded in the dimensions of the heart, mind and spirit. Therefore in humble parlance,

it is common cause and very much uncommon that this postulation and factor would certainly not augur well with others because it would cause a sad dimension of displeasure with no slighter difference in others. Then

does it matter?

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CHAPTER FOURTEEN

THE ISLANDS OF JAPAN (10 000 BC)

THE JOMON ERA: OVERVIEW.

The Historical, Political and Cultural landscape from ancient times to the present is essential to consider because in the overall, these shaped the nature and quality of martial arts. In ancient times the

Islands of Japan were settled by the hunter – gatherer people in the Jomon Era, and by the year 300 BC the Jomon Era ended but opening a new era that became known as the;

YAYOI PERIOD

(300 BC – 300 AD)

It is in this era that the families began to struggle for power. The Yayoi people were related to the Mongols and with them came a new language and religion of Shinto which became a national religion.

This religion resulted in the building of the;

SHINTOIST SHRINE OF ISE (250 AD)

Over the years the 1st Japanese Envoy arrived in China in the year 239 AD. Thereafter, the Yamato/Kofun culture began and the unified state began with strong clan rulers. It be noted that at this point in

time, the society as found in the Islands of Japan was heavily influenced by and based on the Chinese culture in the dimensions of;

Art. Education.

Language.

Technology. Government.

Confucianism. The aftermath and status quo of Chinese influence eventuated in

Japan’s adoption of the Chinese alphabets in 500 AD.

THE CLASSICAL PERIOD Many occurrences took place in this era such as the emergence of;

THE SOGA DYNASTY

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Which took the throne and moved the capital to the Osuka Valley. Prince Shokuto of the Soga Clan began the promotion of Buddhism

within the country. The religion of Buddhism was brought into Japan by a delegation from Korea which was sent by King Packche of Korea

to the Emperor of Japan. Overtime, Prince Shotoku declared Buddhism and Confucianism to be state religions, and the first constitution of the country was drafted and based on the teachings of

Confucius and was called the;

KENPO JUSHICHIJO

Ultimately Prince Shotoku built the famous Buddhist temple called

the;

HORYUJI TEMPLE

It be noted further that, Prince Shotoku got succeeded by Prince

Kotoku Tenno who dramatically increased the imperial powers over all the clans and the capital of Japan was moved once more from Asuka to Nara. Ultimately, Emperor Shomu founded the Todaiji Temple and

thus marking the beginning of the;

HEIAN PERIOD

Which then resulted with the capital being moved to Heian – Kyo. In the year 838 AD the Emperor forbade any contact with China.

THE RISE OF THE SAMURAI AND SHOGUN ERA

The Professional military class in Japan began to gain more and more power and influence, this was very evident when the Fujiwara Clan

ascended the throne in 858 AD. However this dynasty got defeated by Gosanjo who then became the Emperor of Japan. Eventually, two of the strongest military clans emerged and rose to great heights of

power, these were;

THE TAIRA CLAN

THE MINAMOTO CLAN

These two powerful clans constantly engaged in battles for dominance until the Taira Clan defeated the Minamoto Clan in 1156 AD. However, in 1185 the Taira Clan got defeated in the;

GEMPEI WAR

And General Yoritomo of the Hojo Clan seized all power and became the;

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1ST SHOGUN OF JAPAN

While the Emperor remained a figurehead. This development then

ushered a new era which was called the;

KAMAKURA PERIOD

On the side of the Samurai’s the Buddhist Monk called Eisai began the School of Zen Buddhism which was totally popular and embraced

by the Samurais as their path of life and philosophy. On the other hand, a Buddhist Monk called Dogen also introduced the;

SOTO ZEN BUDDHISM

which got popular and embraced by the society at large.

It should be noted by the student(s) that during the Kamakura period, the Emperor’s power declined greatly and the army of Shogun Kamakura defeated the Emperor’s army in the year 1221 AD.

However, in 1330 AD Emperor Go – Daigo defeated the Kamakura Shogunate and restored the imperial power once again.

In 1336 AD Ashikaga Takauji captured the Kyoto Go – Daigo and forthwith declared himself to be the new Shogun, there after he

establish the Northern Court of;

MUROMACHI

Which divided the country into two parts. However, in 1392AD war ensued and the Southern Court got defeated by;

SHOGUN ASHIKAGA YOSHIMITSU

Thereby uniting the country oncemore. It be noted that from 1400 – 1500 AD there were civil wars, political unrests and political control

breakdown in the whole of Japan. This period of hundred years of war was called;

THE AGE OF WAR.

This was due to many factors such as land acquisition and control (ownership).

THE EDO (TOKUGAWA) PERIOD

The Emperor appointed IEYASU as the Shogun, and the capital was moved to;

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EDO

Which subsequently was renamed Tokyo. This development meant the foundation of the most powerful and long lasting dynasty of the;

TOKUGAWA SHOGUNS

which was in total power for two hundred and fifty six years. The Emperor on the other hand, decreed and isolated Japan from the rest of the world in order to keep the country clean and free from the

foreign influences. All the above, were compounded with the banning of foreigners save the Chinese and the Dutch. Even further to that,

the building of ships and the religion of Christianity got banned in Japan. It is in this era of isolation and peace that a new breed of elite Samurais was born. At this juncture one is requested to see the

visual material called the,

SHOGUN

THE SAMURAI PERIOD The dynamics of martial arts would be deficit if the role of the Samurai Caste is not taken into account in this enterprise. Therefore, the synopsis herein is vital for the whole spectrum of martial art evolution

and ubiquity. The warlords who were called the,

DAIMYO

Maintained professional armies which were very skillful in the Martial Arts in particular the swordsmanship. These armies were called the,

SAMURAI

And they upheld their professional standards and ethics in their

special doctrine or code which was called the,

BUSHIDO CODE (Path of the warrior)

It must be pointed out that all the various warlords held their own territory and were charged with the responsibility of law and order,

and the protection of the vital interests of their masters. The Samurai though they were few in numbers as compared to the general

populace, they had absolute authority in the whole society. They also had the power to kill anyone of the lower caste if the need arose. It be noted that, the symbol of such power and authority of the Samurai

was the sword. They were the only caste or class of people that were allowed to carry a sword, no one else. The commoners were not

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allowed by law to carry any weaponry and if so found, one was severely punished. The outcome of this banishement of swords

amongst the commoners, was that the commoners, became more focused on developing barehand combat skills and utilization of

simple domestic and farming impliments as deadly weapons. This very process led to the birth of martial art disciplines such as Kobujutsu and Ninjutsu. The Samurai carried two swords of different lengths

which were called the; DAISHO

The said daisho was made up of the;

KATANA

WAKIZAKI

The Wakizaki was very special, shorter and very exclusive to their

class of the Samurai. In the cause of time the society was put under the class system which was made up of four classification namely the;

WARRIORS

MERCHANTS

ARTISTS

FARMERS

Above all, these classes were under the Samurai and the Shogun and

were endorsed in the Book of Five Rings. The ultimate source of power and authority was the Shogun. It thus became evident that anyone who was not a Samurai was a commoner and servant to the Shogun.

As was already stated that no commoner was allowed to carry a weapon (sword), there were constant searches or sword hunts

amongst the commoners , the most famous sword hunt was that of the;

HIDEYOSHI’S GREAT SWORD –HUNT (1587AD)

The aforesaid sword hunt came about on account of the fact that

Hideyoshi himself was a commoner who used the sword to become

one of the great dictators in Japan. As a result of his feat he sword

hunted extensively with the aim of ensuring that no other person can

do what he had done and take away his power. It can safely be

concluded at this juncture that, the Samurai Caste were the absolute

and vital machinery of warfare and order in Japan and they engaged

in many battles over the vital interests of their respective Shoguns.

THE YEARS OF PEACE IN JAPAN

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(1600 AD)

In this period two great battles had been fought on two different time

frame which were;

THE BATTLE OF SEKIGAHARA (1600AD)

THE SIEGE OF OSAKA CASTLE (1615 AD)

And these ushered the rise of the Tokugawa family into the ultimate power, the power that lasted for two and half centuries. When the Tokugawa Shogunate was in power a relative period of peace

descended Japan. The battles were reduced and of the Samurai they became idled, some

were abandoned due to the death of their warlord or the dishonor of their warlord. Due to these factors some became farmers, bandits,

merchants and teachers of their martial skills. THE DECLINE OF THE SAMURAI ERA

However, it is essential to point out that some of the Samurai were not prepared to compromise their acquired culture, skills, knowledge and

martial science. They proceeded to preserve the best inheritance of the Samurai knowledge, secrets, techniques, skills and culture.

The most prominent of these individuals were:

GRANDMASTER MIYAMOTO MUSASHI

GRANDMASTER TSUKUHARA BOKUDEN

It be noted that Grandmaster Miyamoto Musashi travelled to many places in Japan, seeking new knowledge, skills, secrets, techniques and spiritual transformation. His efforts and enterprise resulted in his

most famous written book called the;

BOOK OF FIVE RINGS

The students of serious intellectual proprietary in martial arts are persuaded to acquire and focus on the book aforesaid. In the same

period another written work was produced from the Nabeshima Daimyo of Kyushu same calling for the restoration of the old skills, old ways and valour of martial arts. This second treatise was thus called;

THE HAGAKURE

On the flipside, one is adverted to the fact that the period of peace as alluded above correspondingly became the years of vendettas (kataki achi) thus referred to as settlement of scores and old wounds. This

was very much common to individuals and groups who had;

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LOST THEIR MASTERS, POSSESSIONS, STATUS AND

HONOUR.

A classic event involving the aforesaid characteristics is that of the;

FORTY – SEVEN RONIN OF AKO

The event that touched on the aforesaid Forty Seven Ronin of Ako where as thus;

Their master (Daimyo) was called ASANO. He had lost his

domain and was caused to render service and gifts to the new

Shogun.

In the Shogun’s Court he was under the tutelage and

supervision of the Samurai called Kira.

Every time and now again Kira ridiculed and insulted Asano

especially over the gifts that he was bringing to the Shogun’s

Court. One day Asano lost his composure and temper, he drew

a sword and cut a wound on Kira.

It was a very serious and or capital offence to draw a sword in

the Shoguns palace. It was absolutely forbidden to do so.

Asano having drawn his sword and cutting a (wound )sword on

Kira he was made to commit the honour suicide (Hara-Kiri).

This therefore meant that Asano’s followers were deprived of

their master and leader due the actions and behavior of Kira.

Thus they took a vow to average Asano. The leader of Asano

followers became none other than;

OSHI KURANOSUKE SAMURAI

In total secrecy all the Forty Seven Ronins ploted the plan. They

even went to the extent and depth of being serious drunkards

who had forgotten about their master and all else.

When everyone had forgotten everything about Asano, the Forty

Seven Ronin gathered together one night they invaded the

mansion of Kira, killed him, cut off his head and placed it on

the tomb (grave) of Asano.

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On the side note, the government or the authorities at the time were bent on reviving the Old Ways of the Samurai, their valour, skills and

culture, which had declined in the years of peace. This revival was indeed encouraged in Japan. However in the context of the deeds and

valour evidenced by the Forty Seven Ronins and the out come thereof, the authorities were placed in a huge and serious dilemma which was as following;

Should the Forty Six Ronins be rewarded for having

demonstrated such valour and spirit of the true Samurai (one

of the Ronins died during the invasion on Kira’s mansion).

Should the authorities punish them for what they had done in

the context of justice, law and order and much more to deter

any such future conduct(s) against the Superiors.

It be pointed out that, after long and heavy deliberations the second option was taken and the Ronins were caused to commit suicide as

punishment. The graves of these gallant men became to this present day, the Samurai pilgrimage epicentre and they are situated at a place called the;

SENGAKU-JI

The students are therefore persuaded to watch the visual material called;

THE SEVEN SAMURAI

RONIN

and also to read this material by Stephen Hunter;

THE 47TH SAMURAI

THE PERIOD OF THE NIGHT CLANS On the backnote, during the years of peace and vendetta the most

powerful secret societies emerged and entrenched their influence discreetly and effectively through out Japan.

On the side note it be noted that the Chinese expatriots who had fled China settled in Ise and Kii In the south of Nara, Japan. These

patriots brought with them rich and distinct knowledge of;

RELIGIOUS PHILOSOPHIES.

MEDICAL PRACTICES.

MARTIAL ARTS SCIENCE.

CULTURAL CONCEPTS.

MILITARY STRATEGIES.

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All the above dimensions of knowledge aforesaid were closely guarded and selectively passed to worthy individuals hence the birth of Secret

Societies of Night Clans occurred. This development was further precipitated by all the individuals who were discontent with the ways

of the Samurai clans or elite. The Secret Societies became the ultimate counter –culture to the Samurai thus the;

NIGHT CLANS

Became a powerful force to reckon with at the time. It is in the above context that the art of;

NINJUTSU

Was born as a specialized and most deadliest form of science

particularly in the regions of;

IGA KORA

All the Night Clans were shrouded in total secrecy and were most

feared through out Japan. One of the most powerful and most feared Night Clan was that of the;

CLAN OF THE BLACK SOIL

It was very common to find that the farmer, trader, doctor, teacher,

woman, boy and girl was at night a ninja or member of the Night Clans. The student(s) is at this point requested to view the material entitled the;

NINJA

ASSASSINS

NINJA,

DOMINATION

SHOGUNS

NINJA

In order to get a sense of proportionality and appreciation of all the

issues herein. One is also referenced to read the material entitled the; NINJA THE KNIGHTS OF DARKNESS

It is believed that even today these ancient clans still exist, In China the night clans wer known as the;

MOSHUH-NANREN.

On the closing note, the student(s) are requested to make extensive research on the dimensions of the;

SAMURAI. SHOGUN. NINJA.

THE DECLINED OF THE SAMURAI CASTE.

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The student(s) has been adverted to the outcomes and impacts of the

Samurai caste during:

THE YEARS OF PEACE

Which caused that the Samurai skills and ways of fighting to deteriorate dramatically, and the acid test and relegation of the status

of skill and fighting ability of the Samurai caste occurred through the minor revolt called the;

SHIMABARA REVOLT

(1638AD)

When the Christians of the Kyushu Island gave the Samurai a hardtime to quell same. The outcome of this event prompted the

authorities to invigorate once more, the stature of the Samurai skills and equipments. This endeavour was vigorously pursued by;

SHOGUN TOKUGAWA YOSHIMUNE (1716-1745 AD)

The aforesaid Shogun revived the fighting skills and stature of the

Samurai caste to exquisite standards. THE BEGINNING OF THE OPENING OF JAPAN

It be pointed out that some of the Shoguns began to interact with the countries of the West such as the Dutch and the Portuguese, through trade they acquire rifles and other things. It is on record that the

isolation of Japan ended in 1854 AD, when the United States of America and Japan signed a trade agreement called the;

TREATY OF KANAGAWA

These new openings instilled a sense of concern, resentment and

resistance from the Samurai caste and populace. The outcome of this concern was two fold in that:

In 1850 many of the Samurai (s) wanted the Restoration of the

Emperor in Japan and that the Tokugawa Shogunate be

overthrown.

A Bloody Civil War ensued and this then precipitated the

downfall of the Tokugawa Shogunate which had been in power

for two and half centuries.

It is obvious that the major force and catalyst in the restoration of the Emperor was the Samurai caste (without discounting other factors

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and forces in the very tapestry). One is adverted to the factor that the power of the Emporer in Japan were given to one called;

MINAMOTO YORITOMI

(1192AD)

And these were restored to Emperor Meiji in 1850.

THE RESTORATION OF JAPAN (1854 – 1912)

THE DECLINE OF THE SHOGUNATE ERA

It is common cause that in the years preceding 1867, Japan was politically fragmented due to the warlords and fiefdoms. These warlords ruled pockets of the country as;

SHOGUNS

The aftermath of the above was the presence of constant conflict and wars amongst the concerned and there was absence of hegemony.

Therefore, the student(s) is urged to watch the visual material called the Shogun in order to appreciate the dynamics of this epoch. The

most powerful and long lasting Shogunate was the;

TOKUGAWA SHOGUNATE

Which after its decline came the era of restoration and hegemony of Japan in 1850 AD.

THE ADVENT OF THE MEIJI ERA (1868 - 1912)

When the Shogunates were gone the process of unification of Japan began. The process aforesaid brought about the enthronement of;

EMPEROR MEIJI

And this was then the watershed in the modernization of Japan. In order to acquire the aspect of modernization, Japan had to open its

doors to the Western countries such as;

HOLLAND.

GREAT BRITAIN. FRANCE.

GERMANY. BELGIUM.

UNITED STATES OF

AMERICA. PORTUGAL.

SPAIN.

It be observed that because of the “open door policy” Japan acquired from other countries the various benefits in the dimensions of;

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TRADE. SCIENCE.

ENGINEERING EDUCATION.

ARMAMENTS. MEDICINE.

TECHNOLOGY

And so on.

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As at the 22nd July 1876, Japan was busy transforming its army. She

sourced armaments and military experts from the United States of America, Great Britain and Germany. The result of modernization of

Japan’s army later on proved to make her a powerful country in the Pacific Region.

THE OLD WAYS AND NEW WAYS COLLISION IN JAPAN The student(s) should be made aware of the fact that, there were some

people who didn’t like the way Japan was opened up for the Western World. This resistance and resentment was more pronounced in the

groups such as;

THE SAMURAI CASTE

The Samurai wanted a gradual change and retention of the Old Ways.

Consequently, many of them resisted the ongoing process of changes and modernization of Japan. The implosion and resentment came to the climax as a result of the;

MILITARY CONSCRIPTION ACT, JAPAN.

(1876 AD)

This very law came to effect on the 1st January 1877, and it splitted the Meiji Oligachy (government) into various factions and the most notable

faction was that of the Ultra Conservative Samurai which was under the distinguished leadership of;

GRANDMASTER SAIGO TAKAMORI.

Secondly, the Decree banning the carrying of sword in the public took offence with the culture of the Samurai’s, they detasted it. The obvious was that the tensions, conflicts, confrontations spiralled and escalated

into rebellions such as the famous;

SATSUMA REBELLION (25th May 1877)

Wherein more than thirty thousand Samurai Warriors were killed as they

directly engaged the modern army of Japan. Grandmaster Saigo Takamori in the battle field committed the suicide of honour thus

marking the end of the last Samurai. Wherefore, the student(s) is persuaded to view the visual material called;

THE LAST SAMURAI.

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In order to appreciated immensities of this era. At this point the

students(s) are requested to read the following materials;

SAMURAI WARRIORS. WARLORDS OF JAPAN.

(THE DAIMYO)

In order to compliment the issues herein discussed, and to exponentiate appreciation and research.

THE RISE OF MODERN JAPAN

(1857 – 1895)

[I] am therefore convinced that our policy should be to conclude friendly alliances, to send ships to foreign countries everywhere.

And to conduct trade, to copy the foreigners where they are at their best and to repair our own shortcomings.

To foster our national strength and complete our armaments and so gradually subject the foreigners to our influence until in the end,

the countries of the world know the blessings of perfect tranquillity and our hegemony is acknowledged through out the globe …” Abriged

Source: Memorandum of Minister Hotta Masayoshi, Japan (1857). In line with the abovementioned, Japan became more modernized, industrialized and a great power in the Pacific Region (Far East).

Overtime, she began to build an Empire of the Sun. Notwithstanding that, and in the context of martial arts the;

DAI NIPPON BUTOKO KAI (1895)

Was created through the directions of Emperor Meiji and Ministry of Education. The core business and or mandate of this institution was to

effect the following: PROMOTION.

SOLIDIFICATION. STANDARDIZATION.

Of all martial arts disciplines throughout Japan. This process also affected the Islands of Okinawa (1935). When Grandmaster Gichin

Fukanoshi was in Japan, he served in this body precisely when teaching and introducing martial arts in all the schools in Japan. It be on record that Grandmaster Gichin Fukanoshi was working with

other great grandmasters in Japan. Wherefore, the student(s) should be more adverted to the fact that, and to extrapolate and appreciate

This is Oikado… The Beginnings of Martial Arts, Botswana

199

that the dynamics of politics, military, religion, economics, culture and education had great influence and impacts on the evolutions and

speciations of martial arts through out the ages. It be pointed out that, as at 1910 Japan had been on the process of building and

expanding its Empire in the Far – East, and through this process of expansion its martial arts culture followed suit and impacted on other foreign martial art(s) disciplines. Not withstanding, the student(s) and

reader(s) are urged to watch visual material entitled,

THE RISE AND FALL OF THE

JAPANESE EMPIRE

In order to appreciate fully the political Social, Military, realities of the

era under discussion. At this juncture, the reader is put on notice that the history detailed herein is continued in Book Two entitled: The Exponentiation Of

Martial Arts, Botswana. The necessity to adopt this arrangement was caused by the realization that, the two pieces combined will make an

inconvenience to the reader due to its bulk and size. Book two traverses and leads to the third expansionary period and internationalization of Botswana’s martial art and the ubiquity of

martial arts from Japan as the modern source.

This is Oikado… The Beginnings of Martial Arts, Botswana

200

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by Sensei Silvester Difako Seleke former student of Moeding College, and BLAKADO, 20th March 2007.

The Information about the Botswana Police College Karate Club was contributed by Sensei Lesego Baruti (instructor), Botswana Police

College, Otse, 30th March 2007. The Information about Sailong Kung Fu School (1970s) was

contributed by Sensei Nathan Kgabi, 26th March 2007.

The Botswana Gazette Wednesday, 12th September 2001: BOKA Chief Instructor skeptical about Karate Book Authors Claims.

The Tsosamotse Shukokai Karate Club and Sensei Vusimuzi Ndlovu 1984. Source: Kutlwano Magazine, number 3 volume 23, March 1985.

The information photos about Tsosamotse Shukokai Karate Club

was contributed by Sensei Madala Mpala, Sensei Simon Tlhong, Sensei Chipo Gaobakwe and Sensei Martin Tshukudu, Former students of Sensei Vusimuzi Ndlovu founder of the Tsosamotse

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The Midweek Sun Wednesday, October 22, 2003: KARATE SHINES.

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The Information about Botswana Team Awards See Also: Mmegi Newspaper, October 28th, 2008 Volume 25 No. 158. And Botswana, Daily News November 25th, 2008 N. 222.

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2008.

The Shaolin Temple of South Africa; sources: The Star, October 8th 1997. The Sunday Times, September 14th 1997. BLEED. September 19th 1997. Keur, November 7th 1997. The Roodepoort Record,

September 3rd 1999. Correspondences: Grandmaster Jurgens Lamprecht between Kyoshi Makgabenyana Solomzi 1998/99.

The Information on the Kobujutsu International, Japan, (Johannesburg) See Also; Midweek Sun August 15th 2007

Wednesday.

The Information on the National College of Martial Arts (USA) See also: NCMA Newsletter 1998 and 1999. Correspondences between Grandmaster Lou Angel and Kyoshi Makgabenyana’Solomzi

(1998/1999). The Information about the Oikado Martial Arts School (Botswana)

Sources: Senior Instructors and the Secretariat (Botswana).

The Information about the founder of Oikado Martial Arts School was researched and provided by Sensei Modiri Tagwa, Senior Instructor of the Oikado Martial Art School (Botswana) 20th March

2007. The Pictorial Information on and about Oikado Martial Arts School

(Botswana) see; Oikado History, By P.S. Makgabenyana Kyoshi, Published by Millenium Vision Publishers, Gaborone, 2002.

The University of Botswana Karate Team (1987 – 1991), was under the Instructorship of Kyoshi Makgabenyana, appointed by the

University of Botswana Administration.

Newslink, 23rd August 1991. Vol. 2 No. 33: Kofukan Karate Promoted, Keiji Tomiyama Visit to Botswana.

The Botswana Gazette, Wednesday 7th April 1999: Young Kofukans Bring Home Gold and Silver.

Botswana, Daily News, January 24th 2000, No.14: KARATE FLY THE NATIONAL FLAG HIGHER.

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Mmegi/Reporter, 17 – 23 March 2000: KARATE UNION HOST FIRST

2000 TRAINING SESSION: Sensei Nikkie Pillay and Sensei Thuto Thuto.

Botswana, Daily News, 29th March 2000 No. 61: Gaborone Sun, Barloworld/BNSC Annual Sports Awards.

MMEGI/REPORTER, 10 – 16 March 2000: Shukokai Regional Championship Position postponed.

The Voice, Friday 24th November 2000: Martial Combat Fair Ground

Amnex Hall, Kofukan Championships. The Botswana Guardian, Friday 5th July 2000: Book Review; Oikado

History Volume 1. Reviewer; Dikarabo Ramadubu.

Mmegi/Sports Briefs, 15 21 August 2003 World Champions, Hayashi Ha and BISA Karate National Finals (Botswana).

Botswana Daily News; Thursday April 2008 no. 73: Karateka(s) in Sasolburg, South Africa. See also Botswan Daily News November 25th 2008 no. 222(pg 23).

Kutlwano (Magazine); July 2005 Volume 43, Issue 7 (SPORTS): Kevin

Groth, RADIO BOTSWANA and Btv News Presenter Mr Tapologo Kwapa.

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Khama Ian Khama President of the Republic of Botswana, see also Botswana Review 28th Edition at page 35. (2008-2009)

Sun Tzu & Gary Gagliardi: Ancient Bing – Fa, Martial Arts STRATEGY, Science of Strategy Institute (USA) (2000).

Munick M.; The Wisdom of Kung Fu, Published, William Morrow Co.

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Will J.T.; Kenpo Karate, Published, Ohara Publishing Incorp, New York USA.

Suzuki Daisetz T.; Zen and Japanese Culture, Published – Bollingen, Princeton University Press (New York) 1959.

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Allen and Unwin Great Britain, 1969.

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Zenno Ishiganu (editor); Disciples of Bhuddha-Kosei Publishing Co. Tokyo Japan, 1989.

Zarrilli, Phillip B.: A South Indian Martial Arts and the Yoga and Ayuivedic Paradigms- University of Wilsconsin.

Luijendik D. H.: Kalarippayat: India’s Ancient Martial Arts, Paladin

Press (2005). Raj, J, David Mauel: The Origin and Historical Development of

Silambam Fencing: An Ancient Self Defence Sport of India. Orego College of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, University of Oregon 1977.

Singhal G. D. and Guru L.V.: Anatomical and Obsetrical

Consideration in Ancient India Surgery, Base on Sarira- Sthana of Sustruta Samhila (1973).

Zarrilli Phillip B.: To Heal and or to Harm: The Vital Spots (Marmmam/Varmani) in two South India Martial Tradilions Part 1: Focus on Kerala’s Kalarippayattu” Journal of Asian Martial Arts

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Subramanian N.: Sangam Polity; Published Asian Publishing House, Bombay 1966

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Daily News Friday June 26, 2009 no. 120 Pg 23, Botswana Daily News (sport) Thursday 22 October 2009no. 198.

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Languages Press, 1963.

Supplemetray References on Botswana Martial Arts Activities: Botswana Daily News, October 12, 2000 no. 193: Shotokan Karatekas Upgraded by South African Chief Instructor Edward

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Weatherhill Incorp. Trumbull, USA 2003.

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This is Oikado… The Beginnings of Martial Arts, Botswana

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CONTACTS AND CORRESPONDENCES:

BIOGRAPHY

Kyoshi Kgosibodiba Moses Racana was born in Tlokweng (Botswana) in 1964. He

commenced the study of Martial Arts in 1979, the main style being Shotokan Karate Do. In subsequent years he

supplemented the main style with Shukokai Karate Do and Kodenkan

Danzan Ryo Juijutsu until 1987 when he met and received martial art instructions from Kyoshi Makgabenyana

Patrick ‘Solomzi at the University of Botswana. At the very time Kyoshi Makgabenyana was the martial art

instructor at the University of Botswana while at the same time pursuing the

final years of the Law Degree. Under Kyoshi Makgabenyana he studied the Martial Arts Oikiru Ryu Karate Jitsu Do (Oikado) and was further sent to Kwa Zulu – Natal

Martial Arts Academy for advance training under Shihan Alpheous Sabela, former student of Grandmaster Ismail Abdul Kader who was

founder of the Shihon Karate College, Durban (South Africa). On the 15th March 2001, Kyoshi Makgabenyana graded Kgosibodiba to 5th Dan Black Belt, and was later on elected the Head Instructor of

Oikado Martial Arts School (Botswana). Kyoshi Kgosibodiba Moses Racana’s greatest works in Botswana’s

martial arts include the following:

The Secretary The Oikado Martial Arts School (Botswana).

P.O. Box 1533

Lobatse, Botswana

Southern Africa

Email: Oikado@yahoo.com

Website: www.Oikadobots.co.bw

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211

He became the President of the Oikado Martial Arts School (Botswana) and Chief Instructor, member of the Grading

Board, Member of the Oikado Research Committee, and taught Martial Arts in many Secondary Schools in Botswana.

He became the Chief Organiser for the Botswana Secondary

Schools, Annual Karate Championships Tournament for more

than 10 years (1990–2000). He coordinated the various Clubs, Clinics, Seminars and Organised the Oikado Youth Grassroot Development Programme (2000–2010) in Botswana.

He also became a member of the Botswana National Sports

Council, Sports Volunteers Committee. Later on he became the Principal Instructor to the Oikado Martial Arts School in the University of Botswana together with Dr Lekoko Kenosi.

Eventually, he wrote several lecture notes, policies and position papers on martial arts. In 2008, he went to Libya

(Tripoli) where he represented the Oikado Martial Arts School in the International Martial Art Conference under the auspices of Wushu Federation.

On the professional dimension, Kyoshi Kgosibodiba in his professional capacity acted in the following positions:

Acting Sportsmaster Mc’Connel College Tutume, Botswana

(1991).

Assistant Examiner Cambridge Overseas Secondary Schools

Certificate (Biology), and Principal Examiner BGCSE (Biology, 2001).

Senior Teacher 1, Guidance and Counseling Senior Teacher. Gaborone Senior Secondary School (1999 – 2001).

Kyoshi Kgosibodiba is the graduate of the University of Botswana with B. ED. Degree, Diploma in Career Guidance and Postgraduate in

Counseling Education. He also became the Project Office for UNESCO JFT Botswana. Currently he resides in Tlokweng with his

family.

This is Oikado… The Beginnings of Martial Arts, Botswana

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Grandmaster Dr Makgabenyana Patrick ‘Solomzi’ was born in Alexandra Township (near Johannesburg) South Africa in 1954. He

grew up in Soweto (Tladi and Mapetla) where he began the study of matial arts in 1968. He studied the martial art system of Wing Chun

Do and Kyokushinkai Karate Do in Kliptown. In December 1969 he relocated to Botswana. He began teaching the martial arts in 1972 to many people and secondary schools, and advanced his knowledge

of martial arts with the styles of AKP Karate Do under Grandmaster Danny Redhill, Judo, Jui Jutsu and Karate under Grandmaster Prof. Jack Robinson, Dynamic Karate under Grandmaster Dave Maas, and

Kyokushinkai Karate Do under Grandmaster Ismail Abdul Kader and Wing Chun Kung Fu under Grandmaster Rev. Chiang Li-Yee. These

then qualified him to study the unique system of Oikiru Ryu Karate Jitsu Do. Ultimately, he became one of the most distinctive and distinguished martial arts teacher in Botswana.

In 1987 he was graded 6th Dan Black Belt by Grandmaster Dr. Louis

H. Fried (10th Dan, Oikiru Ryu Karate Jitsu Do) and was admitted into the International Society of the Martial Artists (ISMA). On the 1st January 1998, he was conferred the rank of 7th Dan Black Belt by

Grandmaster Dr Lou Angel (10th Dan, Tenshi Gojukai Karate Do). On the 1st March 2011, the National College of Martial Arts, International conferred Dr Patrick ‘Solomzi Makgabenyana with the

Doctoral Degree (PhD.MA) and an 8th Dan Black Belt in Martial Arts.

The career of teaching martial arts was commenced in 1972 whilst he was a student at St Joseph’s College (Gaborone), and continued to do same to the present day. He also taught martial arts in the

University of Swaziland (Kwaluseni Campus 1980 – 1981), University of Botswana (1987-1991) and in Bulawayo, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in 1984. Ultimately, Grandmaster Dr Makgabenyana established one

of the profound school of martial arts (1975 – 1987) known as the Fukayama Kung Fu School in Lobatse (Botswana) which became the

forerunner of the present day Oikado Martial Arts School (Botswana). The students that he had taught martial arts directly and indirectly are countless. Given the numbers of studentry,

Grandmaster Dr Makgabenyana began writing a number of martial art monograms and books such as the present one. At the time he

was writing and completing this book, Dr Makgabenyana Patrick ‘Solomzi was completing and celebrating his forty three years as a martial artist of great distinction.

Grandmaster Dr Makgabenyana Patrick ’Solomzi is the graduate of the University of Botswana in Law Degree (LLB) and of the

University of Cape Town in Masters Degree (LLM). He practiced Law for twenty one years in the positions of Private Legal Practitioner

This is Oikado… The Beginnings of Martial Arts, Botswana

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and State Counsel with the Attorney General Chambers in Botswana, and finally he was appointed in the position of the

Assistant Registrar and Master of the High Court of Botswana.

In October 2009, The Law Society of Botswana awarded Dr Makgabenyana Patrick ‘Solomzi with the Certificate of Merit for Distinguished Service and Contribution to the Legal Profession in

Botswana for Twenty years. Dr Makgabenayana having retired from the Public Service in 2010, he is currently operating his Private Legal Practice in Lobatse. However on the 1st August 2012 he was

appointed the Registrar of the Industrial Court of Botswana. He is resident in Molapowabojang with his family (Botswana).

FORTH COMING EDITIONS. (BY SAME AUTHOR)

THE MAKING OF THE SENSEI ,VOLUME 4.

THE EMERGENCE OF THE SENSEI, VOLUME 5.

THE DIMENSIONS OF TECHNIQUES, FUNDAMENTALS. VOLUME 6.

THE DIMENSIONS OF COMBAT, FUNDAMENTALS. VOLUME 7. THE DIMENSIONS OF STRATEGY, FUNDAMENTALS. VOLUME 8.

THE MAKING OF THE DOJO, FUNDAMENTALS. VOLUME 9.

THE WAY OF OIKADO, FUNDAMENTALS. VOLUME 10.

THE COVERT DIMENSION, FUNDAMENTALS. VOLUME 11. (BOOK ONE AND

BOOK TWO). THE SPIRITUAL WAY. VOLUME 12.

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This is Oikado… The Beginnings of Martial Arts, Botswana

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