The 36th Japanese Ambassador’s Judo Cup
2026/9/3
On 29 and 30 August 2026, the Embassy of Japan in the Republic of Zambia and the Judo Association of Zambia co-hosted the 36th Japanese Ambassador’s Judo Cup at the OYDC Zambia Sports Development Centre.
Approximately 450 judokas from across Zambia participated in the tournament. Competition for young athletes were held on the first day, followed by the senior categories on the second day, providing athletes of different generations with an opportunity to demonstrate the results of their training.
The opening ceremony was attended by H.E. Mr. MIKAMI Akiteru, Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Zambia, together with representatives of the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, the Judo Association of Zambia, OYDC Zambia and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), among others. Ambassador Mikami expressed his appreciation to the coaches, referees, organisers and sponsors supporting the tournament. He also encouraged the athletes to listen to their coaches, respect their opponents and enjoy the experience of competing.
Prior to the tournament, a reception attended by approximately 50 judo stakeholders was held at the Ambassador’s Residence on 28 August. Participants exchanged views on the promotion of judo in Zambia, the development of young athletes and the role of judo in creating career opportunities. The reception also reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation among sporting organisations, the Government, the private sector and other partners.
First held in 1986 and now marking its 36th edition, the Japanese Ambassador’s Judo Cup provides an important platform for athlete development and for strengthening exchanges between Japan and Zambia through judo. The Embassy of Japan will continue working to promote mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries through the sport.
To read the speech made by Ambassador Mikami at this event, please click here.
Approximately 450 judokas from across Zambia participated in the tournament. Competition for young athletes were held on the first day, followed by the senior categories on the second day, providing athletes of different generations with an opportunity to demonstrate the results of their training.
The opening ceremony was attended by H.E. Mr. MIKAMI Akiteru, Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Zambia, together with representatives of the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, the Judo Association of Zambia, OYDC Zambia and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), among others. Ambassador Mikami expressed his appreciation to the coaches, referees, organisers and sponsors supporting the tournament. He also encouraged the athletes to listen to their coaches, respect their opponents and enjoy the experience of competing.
Prior to the tournament, a reception attended by approximately 50 judo stakeholders was held at the Ambassador’s Residence on 28 August. Participants exchanged views on the promotion of judo in Zambia, the development of young athletes and the role of judo in creating career opportunities. The reception also reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation among sporting organisations, the Government, the private sector and other partners.
First held in 1986 and now marking its 36th edition, the Japanese Ambassador’s Judo Cup provides an important platform for athlete development and for strengthening exchanges between Japan and Zambia through judo. The Embassy of Japan will continue working to promote mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries through the sport.
To read the speech made by Ambassador Mikami at this event, please click here.