Karpinsky Institute Opens First Sambo Center in Ethiopia.
Addis Ababa: The Karpinsky Russian Geological Research Institute has opened the first Sambo Center in Addis Ababa as part of the international project ‘Sambo in Granite.’ The initiative aims to enhance bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Russia through sports and culture, focusing on the combat sport Sambo, a recognized style of amateur wrestling prominent in Russia.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Mikhail Rakhlin, an honored coach from Russia and president of the Judo Club ‘Turbostroitel,’ highlighted the global promotion of Sambo. “It was so important for me to be here. Science and sport, geology and Sambo, these are areas well-developed in our country. We are ready to share experience with you because we are successful in this and we want you to become more successful,” he said.
Rakhlin stressed Sambo’s role in strengthening international relations. “Our goal is to foster the development of friendly relations, starting with science and its advancement. Friendship, science, and sport are the forc
es that can unite us and make us stronger. They enable us to share our best qualities with one another.”
He expressed confidence that the Sambo Center would further deepen ties between Russia and Ethiopia in both sport and science. “I am sure that such things as science, sport, friendship, communication can move our relations, both personal and state, to an even more trustworthy level. We will take into account what you have the best; you will take the best from us. I think it will be mutual respect and it will give excellent results,” Rakhlin added.
Rakhlin also emphasized the importance of introducing Sambo to Ethiopian children. “I want to see Ethiopian children start practicing this sport,” he said, adding that the project will start with adults and students, and eventually attract young children.
Pavel Khimchenko, Director-General of Karpinsky Russian Geological Research Institute, congratulated both Russian and Ethiopian teams on the opening of the first Sambo center in East Africa. He noted the aim
of the center is to develop athletes and professionals in Ethiopia.
“We have made plans with Ethiopian athletes and Russian specialists. In the short term, our primary goal is for Ethiopians to participate in the African Championship. In the long term, we certainly hope to see African athletes competing in the World Sambo Championship,” Khimchenko stated.
He further emphasized that Sambo would provide Ethiopians with valuable life skills, helping them grow as both athletes and individuals. “The lessons learned through Sambo will be useful in daily life, providing participants with confidence and discipline that extend beyond the sport itself,” he noted.
Finally, Khimchenko mentioned the institute’s efforts in inspiring Ethiopian students through lectures on earth sciences, with interactive storytelling and engaging presentations by Russian experts.
The Russian Geological Research Institute opened its Karpinsky Geological Class in Ethiopia in May 2024.