A Karate Champion in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Junior Djonga Omatoko, an African karate champion and member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has achieved numerous titles by the age of eighteen. He is the son of Omatoko Djonga Pierre and Kabuya Tshibwabwa Anne-Marie. From a young age, he and his father established a meaningful tradition. He shared: “Before each competition, my father always lays his hands on my head to offer a fatherly blessing. Each time he does, I feel peace and assurance that nothing bad can happen to me, and that God will bless my efforts.” 

Junior began training karate when he was six years old, a discipline he embraced not only as a sport but also as a passion for maintaining his physical health. He had already made his mark in several amateur tournaments, yet the thought of turning professional hadn’t crossed his mind. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, he shares, "I was sixteen when I received an unexpected call from my coach. Our conversation went something like this:

‘Junior, what are you up to?’ he asked.

‘Nothing much, Coach. Just hanging out at home,’ I replied.

‘Well, gear up. I want you to compete in the Open Pool Malebo Karate tournament tomorrow.’"

The championship, known for attracting the region’s finest athletes, was an intimidating prospect. Despite being young, my sizeable physique put me in the over 84kg category, the heaviest in Karate. However, I found reassurance in my coach’s faith in me, thinking, ‘If my coach sees potential in me, then I can certainly compete against the other athletes.’ This conviction led me to my first victory, crowning me as the new champion of the Open Pool Malebo in my inaugural professional-level tournament.

That same year, in Kisangani in the DR Congo, Junior Djonga won the national championship in the cadet category of over 70 kg; then in Goma he won the Central African cadet championship of over 70 kg; and he finished third in the African karate championship in Durban, South Africa.

The journey of a champion is filled with hurdles. In 2023, Junior Djonga didn't secure a win in any major tournament. Reflecting on this, he confesses, "When I ascended to the peak, I basked in my glory and overlooked the importance of training. However, my coach played a crucial role in helping me realize that unwavering preparation and a serious mindset are key to winning battles." 

In July 2024, He won the title of African champion in Yaoundé, Cameroon. More other competitions are yet to come, and Brother Junior Djonga's greatest assurance comes from knowing that God will bless his efforts.