KWAZULU-NATAL MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture MEC Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba was today awarded with a rank of 4thDan Honorary Black Belt prescribed by Karate South Africa in recognition of his work in sport and in karate promotion, in particular.
Mahlaba, once a devoted karateka and martial artist in this primary and high years has worked extensively to promote the Japanese-originated sport meeting with the karate leadership and supporting their cause since taking over the department a year ago.
The rank and the certificate of achievement presented by Shihan Bongani Gumede during the Sukasambe programme in Inanda today are endorsed by both Karate South Africa and will soon be endorsed by the World Karate Federation.
“To our surprise, we discovered that the MEC was almost an accomplished karateka and that he has worked extensively in the sport. Karate South Africa saw it fit to honour the MEC with the rank of 4th Dan Black Belt,” said Gumede.
MEC Mahlaba said he was humbled by the gesture from Karate South Africa saying it was not expected.
“I am humbled by the honour, and I pledge to continue to promote karate equally with all other sporting codes in the province. This is a sport that calls for maximum discipline and I wish more young people can consider taking it up and even turning professional to advance its gains and benefit in humanity,” said Mahlaba.
