Shihan Wilfred Mashaya, Zimbabwe’s renowned martial arts maestro, has been named the Master of the Year at the prestigious Humanitarian Martial Arts Festival and Seminar in Montenegro on Saturday.

This prestigious accolade recognises Mashaya’s exceptional contribution to the world of martial arts, particularly his mastery of the traditional Okinawan art of Kobudo. He is also a practitioner of Bujinkan Ninjutsu, Kyokushin Karate & Self Défense. Affectionately known as the “Zim Ninja,” Mashaya’s achievements have been recognised globally with his impressive performance in Kobudo, a weapons-focused martial art that emphasizes weapon-based techniques.

His latest honour is proof of his commitment and perseverance, which have inspired a new generation of martial artists in Zimbabwe including grooming a world champion, Vincent Fambira from his Fast growing Award Winning Academy. Mashaya’s impressive resume boasts a wealth of accolades, including the coveted Kobudo World title, which he won in England in 2023.

As he prepares to defend his title in October, his confidence is soaring, having recently claimed multiple medals in international competitions in Bangladesh and England. As a pioneer of Kobudo in Zimbabwe, he has been instrumental in developing over 30 athletes who are now ready to compete on the global stage.
In October, 20 of his students will represent Zimbabwe at the ICO World Championships in Germany.
Mashaya’s recognition as the Master of the Year is all the more remarkable as he was the sole representative from Africa among a distinguished group of martial arts masters and grandmasters from across Europe.
Shihan Mashaya will be returning home on Wednesday, 11th September. Join us at Robert Mugabe International Airport to give him a hero’s welcome!