Girls in Congo learning how to defend themselves : Pointe-Noire, Congo is home to a growing number of adolescent girls interested in learning self-defense skills through the martial art of hapkido, which was introduced five years ago. Among the many martial arts performed in the nation, trainer Armel Matanzala emphasized hapkido’s attractiveness due to the efficiency of the technique and the fascination it inspires in onlookers.
A major motivating factor for the girls enrolled at the Centre de Référence to practice hapkido is the fear for their safety amidst the proliferation of criminal groups referred to as “Black babies.” The female population of large towns in the Congo, such as Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, is a prime target for the horrific atrocities committed by these gangs, which include rape and murder.
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In light of the pervasive dangers presented by criminal elements, participant Séphora Zefo highlighted the significance of hapkido in providing her with self-defense abilities. Girls who learn hapkido are better able to defend themselves and fight off attackers.
Sophia Kangou spoke about how she decided to take hapkido lessons after a personal experience of harassment. Because of her history of men’s verbal and physical abuse, Kangou felt helpless and exposed. Fortunately, hapkido gave her the skills to defend herself and restore control in dangerous situations.
When confronted with a man who was pestering her at a bus stop, Kangou’s hapkido training came in handy, she said. Thanks to her newly acquired self-defense skills, Kangou managed to free herself from the dangerous scenario and make it out unscathed.
The self-assurance and competence these girls have acquired in hapkido training send a message to would-be attackers that they are not afraid to stand up for themselves. These young ladies are gaining the confidence and skills they need to face the challenges of city life as they advance in their training.
