The Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy (NJA) officially opened its doors on February 13, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s martial arts scene.
The event, attended by Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy members and practitioners, was also graced by the Ambassador of Brazil to Kenya Silvio Albuquerque and Prof Ricardo Testai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu Head Instructor at Kings MMA (Los Angeles, USA).
The guests shared their support for the academy’s mission. “Brazilian jiu-jitsu is an increasingly important Brazilian cultural export that allows the whole world to see a part of our beautiful country,” Albuquerque said. “It also helps build strong and healthy communities such as the one I am seeing in Nairobi and here today at the Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy,” he added.
Prof Testai, whohas been the coach of some of the world’s top mixed martial arts (MMA) stars and former UFC champions, further emphasised the life-changing impact of the sport. “Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fosters resilience and focus in everyday life and helps build deep friendships between people who may otherwise have very little in common,” he said. “Such bridges are particularly important in our increasingly polarised world today.”
NJA founder Julio DeSouza said the gym’s aim is to offer top-tier BJJ training and foster a strong local community of athletes in both Brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA. With state-of-the-art facilities and expert instructors, NJA provides programmes for all ages and skill levels, creating an inclusive environment for both fitness and competition. NJA’s kids’ programme has currently enrolled over 40 young students from ages 4–13. This programme is designed to develop the next generation of champions by instilling essential values while providing specialised classes tailored to different age groups.
A highlight of the opening ceremony was a belt promotion that recognised the hard work and dedication of both young and adult practitioners at Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy. This special event celebrated the accomplishments of students who demonstrated perseverance and skill in their training.
The academy also ran a successful women’s self-defence workshop on February 15, facilitated by Prof Testai and two of Nairobi’s most accomplished female BJJ practitioners – Shiggy Pakter and Salma Abdi (She Defense).
The Women’s Self-Defence workshops empowered the women attendees withskills to respond to some of the common physical threats to their well-being. Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy, jointly with One Tribe BJJ, is sending a team of 14 athletes to represent Kenya at the AJP Continental Championship in Cairo, scheduled for February 21–22, 2025, at Cairo International Stadium.
Located on the third floor of New Muthaiga Mall, Thigiri Ridge, Westlands, NJA provides a state-of-the-art facility and an ideal training environment for students of all levels. The academy offers a comprehensive schedule of Gi, No-Gi, beginner, and advanced classes for both children and adults, fostering a supportive community where individuals can learn, grow, and thrive through the art of jiu-jitsu.
With a team of experienced coaches, NJA places a strong emphasis on both physical and mental development, helping students build confidence, self-discipline, and respect. Whether for beginners or seasoned practitioners, NJA is committed to cultivating skill, discipline, and a lifelong passion for martial arts.
