Abuja (Nigeria) – July 23, 2025
The Elective General Assembly of the Union of African Karate Federations (UFAK) was held yesterday in the Nigerian capital. Following the vote, Souleymane Gaye was elected President of the organization, opening a new chapter for African karate.
A Man of Experience Serving African Karate
With over 45 years of practice and a 6th Dan Shotokan, Souleymane Gaye embodies continuity and competence. Vice-President of UFAK since 2001 and General Treasurer, he had already been serving as interim president for several months. His commitment extends beyond the continental scope:
- Member of the WKF Executive Committee since 2004
- Assistant General Treasurer and Technical Delegate to FISU
- Former President of the Senegalese Karate Federation (1999-2012)
This impressive background earned him in 2002 the distinction of Knight of the National Order of the Lion in Senegal. Alongside his sports involvement, he is a teacher, chemical engineer, and human resources management expert.
Ambitious Strategic Objectives
In his program, Souleymane Gaye presented a vision centered on three pillars: governance, competencies, and continental outreach.
1. Governance & Leadership
- Train national federation executives (presidents, general secretaries, treasurers) according to the standards of the IOC Advanced Sport Management Course.
- Promote effective organizational models to professionalize national structures.
2. Skills Development
- Provide training in digital tools such as SportData and modern competition formats.
- Develop continuous programs for referees, coaches, and officials.
- Launch online seminars with international experts.
3. Continental and International Outreach
- Optimize the financial and logistical management of federations.
- Increase the presence of African athletes in WKF circuits (Karate Premier League, Series A, World Championships).
- Develop networks of globally certified referees and coaches.
A New Leadership Team
Alongside Souleymane Gaye, the General Assembly elected a renewed team:
- 1st Vice-President: Bechir Cherif
- 2nd Vice-President: Sayed Nasr
- 3rd Vice-President: Sonny Pillay
- 4th Vice-President: Hon Silas A. Agara
- General Treasurer: Madani BA
- General Secretary: Bertin Dogmo
Outlook
“Souleymane Gaye’s election marks an important step for African karate. His ambitious roadmap, combining modernization, professionalization, and international openness, could profoundly transform the karate ecosystem on the continent in the coming years.”