Nguni Stick Fighting

Nguni Stick Fighting is a traditional martial art of the Nguni peoples — Zulu, Xhosa, Swazi and others — of southern Africa. Two fighters face off, each armed with a long striking stick (isikhwili) and a short parrying stick (ubhoko) held with a small shield. Blows to the head are permitted and marks earn points. Nelson Mandela was a boyhood champion. It is still practised at ceremonies and as ceremonial exhibition combat.