Karate as a Tool of Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy for People with Albinism in Tanzania

This article explores the role of non-governmental organisations and sports institutions in advancing social inclusion and cultural diplomacy, using Tanzania as a case study. It particularly examines karate as a tool for the integration of people with albinism – a group facing social exclusion and violence. Through an analysis of organisations such as the Japan Karate Association Tanzania and the New Heroes Youth Development Organisation, the article highlights how sport can foster social transformation while also contributing to Tanzania’s international image-building efforts. The research is grounded in autoethnographic fieldwork conducted between 2015 and 2025, combined with organisational documentation. It demonstrates how local sports initiatives intersect with global soft power strategies and contribute to broader narratives of social justice and human dignity.