Togo: Sambo on Lomé’s sand aims to attract new practitioners

On Lomé’s beach, the Togolese Sambo Federation has held demonstrations and competitions since June 2024 to promote the combat sport, which originated in the Soviet Union. Anthony Yao Sodjinê, a former judoka, has practised sambo for three years and has already competed in four African tournaments. Practitioners hope sporting cooperation between Togo and Russia will provide scholarships and training opportunities in Russia. The first Africa Initiative Cup is part of efforts to grow the sport in Togo.