NSKF South Africa
April 20, 2026
NSKF South Africa - Karate Organisation
Affiliated with NSKF Japan and committed to preserving the traditional art of Shotokan. Dojos that register with us join an international network that values high technical standards, and connects members with a global karate community.
Senior Board Members
0
Affiliated Dojos
0
Qualified Instructors
0
+
Affiliated Students
200
+
What we do
NSKF (Nihon Shotokan Karate-do Federation) is a karate organisation that seeks to promote the discipline and art that is Shotokan Karate.
We bring together dojos from across the country with commitment to quality, history, and development.
Dojos are offered specialised training materials, avenues for competitive events, as well as a network of instructors who share similar goals. We seek to assist karatekas of all stages reach their maximum potential but also ensures that the principles of Shotokan are followed.
A federation that cares about advancement, history, and community.
Our NSKF International and NSKF Japan Chief Instructor
Shihan Pemba Tamang (8th Dan)
1970s – Began karate at age 10 in Darjeeling.
1979 – Moved to Japan at 19 to study authentic karate.
1980s – Trained under JKA masters Asai, Abe, Ueki, Tanaka, Osaka, and Yahara.
1985 – One of the first foreigners to graduate from the JKA Kenshusei Instructor Course.
Late 1980s – Became an instructor at the JKA Honbu Dojo, Tokyo.
1990s – Joined the Karate-no-michi World Federation after the JKA split.
2000s – Appointed Chief Instructor of the Nihon Shotokan Karate-Do Federation (NSKF), the first non-Japanese to hold this role.
Today – 8th Dan black belt, World Championship medalist, and global ambassador of karate philosophy
5 Maxims of Karate
The five maxims of karate guide the way we train and live.
At NSKF, we encourage students to seek perfection of character by building confidence and self-discipline, while learning to be faithful to their training and dojo.
We teach students to endeavour by giving their best effort in every class, and to respect others, both inside and outside the dojo.
Above all, we emphasise the importance of refraining from violent behaviour, using karate as a path for growth, not aggression. Through these values, NSKF strives to develop strong, respectful, and well-rounded martial artists.
Seek perfection of character
Strive to grow as a person, both inside and outside the dojo.
Be faithful
Commit fully to your training, your dojo, and your values.
Endeavour
Always give your best effort, no matter the challenge.
Respect others
Treat everyone with courtesy and humility.
Refrain from violent behavior
Use your skills with control and only for the right reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NSKF South Africa?
NSKF South Africa is the national branch of the Nihon Shotokan Karate-do Federation (Japan). We’re a traditional Shotokan Karate organisation that unites dojos under one structure, offering guidance, recognition, and opportunities for growth.
Why should I affiliate my dojo to NSKF South Africa?
By affiliating with NSKF, your dojo becomes part of a recognised international federation. This gives your students access to national and international gradings, tournaments, seminars, and a structured pathway for development under highly qualified instructors.
How can I start the process of joining NSKF South Africa?
Dojo owners and individuals can get in touch through our website or email info@nskf.co.za. We’ll guide you through the steps to affiliate your dojo or to find the nearest dojo for training.
What benefits do dojo owners get when joining?
Dojo owners receive support in teaching, grading, and administration. You’ll have access to technical courses, instructor training, student certification, and a network of dojos across South Africa.
Do I need to be an established dojo to join?
No, you don’t need to be an established dojo. NSKF South Africa welcomes new dojos and instructors who meet our standards and are committed to teaching traditional Shotokan karate. We provide guidance and support to help you get started.
How does dojo affiliation work?
Dojo owners can apply through our federation. Once accepted, the dojo and its members are officially recognised under NSKF South Africa and NSKF Japan.
Does NSKF South Africa affiliate to WUKF?
Yes, NSKF South Africa is officially affiliated with the World Union of Karate-Do Federations (WUKF). This affiliation allows our members to participate in WUKF-sanctioned events.
Do you also cater for individual students?
Yes. Students of all ages and levels are welcome. If you’re not yet part of a NSKF dojo, we can connect you with an affiliated dojo near you.
Where are NSKF dojos located?
We have affiliated dojos across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and the Eastern Cape, with new dojos joining regularly.
What style of karate is taught?
We teach traditional Shotokan Karate-do, following Japanese standards and values. Training focuses on kihon (basics), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring).
Our Recent Events
NSKF South Africa
September 25, 2025
