The Ghana Kendo Federation recently organized a referees seminar on April 6, 2025, at the Aviation Social Centre. The training session, which brought together eight senior kendokas, aimed to improve the officiating skills of referees ahead of the National Inter Club Championships scheduled for May 24, 2025.
According to Mr. Sesinam Dzakpasu, President of the Ghana Kendo Federation, the decision to host the seminar was prompted by the need to address inadequacies in refereeing. “We take refereeing very seriously,” he emphasized. “Poor refereeing can lead to unfairness, and we want to ensure that our officials are well-prepared to make accurate judgments.”
The seminar is the first of a series of six training sessions planned by the Federation to equip referees with the necessary skills and knowledge. Mr. Dzakpasu encouraged martial arts enthusiasts to consider Kendo, describing it as a unique and exciting sport that focuses on sword fighting with bamboo-made swords.
Bruce Promise Adjaho, Technical Director of Ghana Kendo and Judo, highlighted the importance of the course, noting that the Federation had previously relied on Japanese officials for refereeing. “We have to take it upon ourselves to train our local referees and prepare them for international certification and practical experience in officiating,” he said.
The Ghana Kendo Federation’s efforts to develop local referees demonstrate its commitment to promoting the sport and ensuring fair competition. With the National Inter Club Championships just around the corner, the Federation is confident that its referees will be well-equipped to make a positive impact on the sport.
