On July 5, 2025, the first official training session for national Kurash referees and coaches was held in Nouakchott, Mauritania, for the first time in the country’s history. The event, organised by the Mauritanian Kurash Association, was an important step towards the systematic and professional development of Kurash on the continent.
The training was led by Hadou Varajou Benkrou, a certified trainer of the International Kurash Institute (IKI) and head of the Association. During the training, participants were introduced to the historical roots, philosophy and technical foundations of Kurash. This was not only an exchange of knowledge, but also a solid foundation for the development of Kurash in Mauritania.
More than 11 local coaches participated in the seminar, learning the seven main technical groups of Kurash and the most important techniques used in competitions and training.
The event was held with the support of the President of the African Kurash Union, Thomas Dunker, and the General Secretary, Martial Ngoka Mondet.
The International Kurash Association highly appreciates this initiative and recognises it as another positive step that will serve to deepen the roots of the sport of Kurash on the African continent. This historic path, which began in Mauritania, will undoubtedly make an impact on the formation of new continental Kurash centers in the future.
