August 18, 2023 will remain an emblematic day for the alumni of the Central Bureau of Diverse Organizations (BUCODI INTERNATIONAL), who commemorated the twenty-ninth anniversary of the death of their CEO, Selemani Modja. This renowned wrestler, who died on March 23, 1994, was honored during a ceremony loaded with symbols and meaning.
Gathered in Kinshasa, the former colleagues and the biological family of Selemani Modja went to the cemetery of Gombe to inaugurate a tombstone and a mausoleum dedicated to this great athlete. However, it is important to emphasize that this commemoration was not motivated by financial reasons, but rather by respect for the religious beliefs of his Muslim family.
Master Kake Engambe, president of BUCODI INTERNATIONAL, made a point of specifying that this initiative was the fruit of a negotiation with the family of Selemani Modja. He also stressed that it was not a question of a lack of financial means, but rather of a desire to respect the religious traditions of the family.
For Master Shaolin, one of the former collaborators, this commemoration also took on a symbolic character by paying homage to all the Congolese wrestlers who died. It is in this spirit that the biological family of Selemani Modja expressed their gratitude to BUCODI INTERNATIONAL for this great initiative.
Besides the ceremony at the cemetery, several athletes from different combat disciplines also marked the day by showing off their talents at the Lemba Cultural Center. This sporting demonstration was an opportunity to pay tribute to Selemani Modja and all the wrestlers who have died.
This commemoration also benefited from the presence of Omer Egwake, former minister and sponsor of Congolese wrestling, who wanted to support this event.
In conclusion, this commemoration of the twenty-ninth anniversary of the death of Selemani Modja was a moment charged with emotion and respect for this great wrestler. This event made it possible to pay tribute to all the Congolese wrestlers who have disappeared and to recall the importance of respecting religious convictions while respecting family traditions