NAIROBI, Kenya — Growing up in the semi-arid eastern regions of Kenya, Evans Munzaa had aspirations for his future. He envisioned a career in information technology, a wife, and two kids by the time he reached the age of 30.
However, at 31, Munzaa has faced significant challenges; he has not held a formal job since graduating from college a decade ago, and he currently does not live with his daughter and her mother due to what he describes as “insufficient earnings that cannot support a family.”
In a quest to fill his time meaningfully, Munzaa recently developed an interest in kung fu, a Chinese martial art, and aims to become a full-time coach. He is optimistic that the Kenyan government will provide funding for kung fu initiatives, as it increasingly resonates with the youth and is permitted to utilize government training facilities.
“I have been compelled to survive by engaging in the informal economy as an actor, farmer, and by accepting various low-paying jobs, despite the sacrifices my widowed mother made to support my education,” Munzaa shared during a complimentary training session at a community hall in Nairobi’s Waithaka area.
An increasing number of young individuals in Kenya are recognizing kung fu as a viable avenue for generating future income. It has become an appealing alternative to taekwondo, which is already integrated into several school programs and has seen Kenyans participating in international events.
The visibility of Chinese workers involved in major infrastructure projects has kindled an interest in their culture, particularly in a nation renowned for its remarkable runners.
Coach Kennedy Murimi, who provides training in Nairobi’s Kawangware neighborhood, is witnessing a notable uptick in participant numbers. He noted that attendance at his sessions has surged threefold in recent months, attracting around 60 eager learners.
“This year marked a significant influx of young participants. Many have indicated that due to job losses, they are exploring kung fu in hopes of becoming coaches or competing in tournaments that offer financial rewards,” said Murimi.
With an overall unemployment rate of 12.7% in Kenya, the figure rises to a staggering 67% for individuals under the age of 35, reflecting a broader issue prevalent throughout Africa, which has a blossoming youth population.
Ngaruiya Njonge, president of the Kenya Kung Fu Wushu Federation, began training in kung fu three decades ago, inspired by Chinese martial arts movies. He conducts his training sessions near his home in Kiambu County, located on the outskirts of Nairobi, where local officials are grappling with increasing problems like alcoholism and crime.
One of Njonge’s students, Elvis Munyasia, attested to the positive impact of kung fu on his life. “Without kung fu, I would probably be drinking alcohol right now, engaging in drugs and worse, potentially theft. Since I started training, my life has evolved for the better, providing me with a sense of direction,” he expressed.
Over the past five years, around 4,000 students have benefitted from free kung fu training sessions through clubs established by Njonge in 24 public primary schools across Kiambu County. Despite the demand, there is a notable shortage of qualified coaches for these programs, he indicated.
Njonge believes that kung fu promotes self-discipline, enhances health, and equips individuals with defensive skills—benefits that extend beyond physical capabilities to mental and social resilience.
Aisha Faith, a student, shared how kung fu has contributed to her academic success. “It has fundamentally changed me in physical, mental, and academic aspects. I was once a slow learner, but practicing kung fu has sharpened my focus and speed, leading to a marked improvement in my scholastic achievements,” she noted. “It has also kept me away from negative influences and distractions, since I now dedicate my time to training.”
For Munzaa, kung fu has been a significant turning point. He candidly admitted that financial difficulties once led him to contemplate suicide, but after engaging in kung fu training, he has developed resilience. “With each training session, I not only strengthen my body, but my mind is also conditioned to endure and thrive in life,” he reflected.