What is Capoeira?

Have you heard of this Afro-Brazilian martial arts dance? If you said no, you’re not alone.

On September 11th 2022, we celebrated the Afrikan New Year according to the Egyptian calendar. During this special edition of Spirituality Beyond Religion at Nairobi Arboretum, we were graced by some special guests. That’s Salim Rollins and his group of capoeira trainees.

That warm Sunday afternoon, the Capoeira Angola instructor introduced us to this playful martial arts. He explained the African roots of this beautiful game that inspires the best Brazilian footballers. And how it is similar to African traditions, from call and response to the berimbau instrument.

The necessity to fight is the necessity to play – Salim Rollins

After learning about capoeira and practising a few moves, Salim invited us to their free capoeira classes in Nairobi. Every Tuesday and Thursday 5-7pm, he teaches a group of children and adults at St George Orthodox Church in Kibera.

If you want to learn more, you know where to go.

Connect with Salim Rollins on Instagram