By: Gouda Abouelnour
Amid the ongoing development of karate both nationally and across the African continent, and with the announcement of his candidacy for the presidency of the African Karate Federation, Mohammed Moktabel, President of the Royal Moroccan Karate Federation, speaks about the reasons behind his candidacy, his vision for the future of karate in Africa, and key milestones in Moroccan karate. He also touches on the challenges facing the sport, areas for development—especially concerning youth, women, infrastructure—and more.
Here is the full interview:
Running for the Presidency of the African Karate Federation: Goals and Aspirations
What motivated you to run for the presidency of the African Karate Federation?
My candidacy stems from a deep belief in Africa’s potential to become a major force in global karate. However, this requires new leadership and a unified strategic vision. I believe my long-standing experience in sports administration—both nationally and internationally—qualifies me to serve this project with high competence.
What are the main pillars of your electoral program?
My program is based on three key priorities:
• Developing infrastructure and training across the continent
• Establishing good governance and transparency within the federation
• Opening up to international partnerships for technical and knowledge exchange
What sets you apart from other candidates?
My closeness to national federations and my deep understanding of Africa’s unique challenges, along with substantial management experience in national and international bodies, give me the ability to lead a real and effective transformation.
Do you have support from within the continent?
Yes, there is strong support from several federations, and growing optimism about the need for positive change within the African federation. We are in constant communication with various stakeholders to strengthen this path.
What is your vision for developing karate in Africa?
We aim to make Africa highly competitive internationally through:
• Increasing continuous training programs
• Organizing regular continental championships
• Greater inclusion of youth and women
• Embracing digital transformation in management and communication
How will you address the significant disparities between African countries?
We will adopt a model of sports solidarity, providing technical and logistical support to countries with limited resources, and launching regional joint training programs.
Do you have a plan to enhance Africa’s presence globally?
Yes, by raising the level of athletes and coaches, ensuring strong participation in international competitions, and strengthening the African federation’s role in the global karate system.
What is your final message to athletes and administrators across Africa?
My message is clear: the future is in our hands. Let us work together, with confidence and unity, to give African karate the status it deserves.
The Reality of Moroccan Karate: Significant Progress and Existing Challenges
How do you assess the current state of karate in Morocco?
The sport is experiencing tremendous growth, especially among youth. We have a wide base of practitioners, along with impressive achievements at both continental and international levels.
What challenges do you face nationally?
• Limited infrastructure in some regions
• Financial constraints faced by some clubs
• The need to spread karate more in rural and school environments
What about coach and referee training?
We are training coaches and referees using modern methods and rely on regional academies and training schools. However, we aim to raise the level further through the integration of technology and continuous education.
International Achievements… and Prominent Moroccan Figures
What are Morocco’s recent achievements?
We have won medals in Arab and African championships, and notable figures have emerged in world competitions, such as Aya Ennassiri and Said Oubaya.
How do you prepare for major competitions?
Through national and international training camps, performance analysis of competitors, and the development of precise tactical plans with top-level coaches.
Are there promising young talents?
Yes, there are many promising young talents we are counting on. We are preparing them to represent Moroccan karate honorably on the global stage.
Infrastructure and Training: Building the Champions of Tomorrow
What is the importance of regional academies and schools?
They are a key foundation for talent discovery and development through scientifically structured training programs, supervised by qualified coaches.
Does Morocco have sufficient infrastructure?
There has been major improvement, but some areas still lack adequate facilities. We are working with partners to address this.
Are there programs to develop referees and coaches?
Yes, we organize both national and international training sessions and ensure the adoption of the latest training and refereeing curricula.
International Relations: Openness to Africa and the World
What is Morocco’s standing in international organizations?
We hold a respected position in both the International and African Karate Federations, with significant presence in technical and organizational committees.
Are there international partnerships?
Yes, with several federations in Europe and Africa. These involve training, knowledge exchange, and the organization of joint events.
What is Morocco’s role in developing continental karate?
We contribute by organizing championships and training sessions and participate in African initiatives aimed at expanding the sport’s base.
Women and Youth: A Pillar for the Future of the Sport
How do you promote karate among young people?
We integrate karate into school activities, conduct awareness campaigns, and organize local and regional tournaments to discover talent.
Is there increasing female participation?
Yes, steadily increasing. We’ve launched programs specifically for girls, including motivational workshops and exclusive tournaments to encourage more women in the sport.
Governance and Funding: Ensuring Sustainability
How do you ensure transparency within the federation?
Through clear governance mechanisms, regular financial audits by specialized committees, and the publication of periodic reports.
How are clubs supported financially and technically?
With government support and sponsorships, we ensure fair distribution of resources among clubs, along with continuous technical support.
Future Projects and a Promising Vision for Moroccan Karate
What are the key future projects of the federation?
• Developing regional academies
• Expanding karate practice in schools
• Hosting major international championships in Morocco
Can karate become a more popular sport?
Yes, especially with increasing state support and growing awareness among youth of the sport’s value in building character and discipline.
How has royal support impacted the development of sports in Morocco and Africa?
Royal support has been a real driving force behind the development of Moroccan sports across all disciplines, and karate is one of the sports that has greatly benefited from this royal patronage. Thanks to His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s visionary leadership, sport has become a tool for development and a source of national and international excellence. The King’s initiatives towards Africa also strengthen sports solidarity and encourage the exchange of expertise between African nations. This royal approach gives strong momentum to our projects both within Morocco and across the continent.
Final Word to the Youth?
Karate is not just a competition—it’s a school of values and balance. We welcome every ambitious young person who wants to build their path in this noble sport.
