Organised by the Senegal National Committee for Vovinam – Viet Vo Dao under the authority of several governmental bodies, the tournament ran until May 4 and attracted Vovinam enthusiasts from around the globe. 

This year, the tournament welcomed participants from 11 African countries that are part of the African Vovinam – Viet Vo Dao Confederation, alongside representatives from several European nations and Vietnam. 

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture of the Republic of Senegal Khady Diene Gaye remarked: “This is an important activity for our country. I am particularly impressed with the Vovinam - Viet Vo Dao delegation from Vietnam.” 

Minister Gaye, born in 1985, studied Vovinam while attending Saint Louis University. 

At the event, Master Tran Nguyen Dao, president of the Council of Masters of the World Vovinam – Viet Vo Dao Federation, stated: “The tournament is truly meaningful, gathering many Vovinam teams from around the world, including those from France, Belgium, Senegal, Tunisia, Burkina Faso, Mauritania and Togo.” 

In addition to competing, the Vietnamese delegation also showcased a special lion and dragon performance, promoting the sport in Senegal and contributing to the introduction of Vietnamese culture to international friends. 

Pham Quang Long, head of the Vietnamese Vovinam Delegation and president of the Science Institute for Vietnamese Martial Arts Training, said: “The international martial arts tournament in Senegal is not only a platform to honour the essence of martial arts, but also a symbol of the growing friendship and cultural exchange between Vietnam and African countries.

Vovinam recognised as national intangible cultural heritage

VOV.VN - Vovinam-Việt Võ đạo, a traditional Vietnamese martial art, has been listed as the country’s national intangible cultural heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.