Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy
___ about us
Jiu-Jitsu 柔術 (じゅうじゅつ) means ‘gentle art’ in Japanese.
Nairobi Jiu Jitsu Academy is located on the 3rd floor of New Muthaiga Mall, Thigiri Ridge. Our state-of-the-art facility boasts 100sqm of mat space, purpose-built to provide the best training environment.
We offer a full schedule of Gi and No Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, beginners, and advanced classes for both kids and adults. We also offer MMA and Wrestling classes for adults. Our goal is to create a community where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive through the art of Jiu Jitsu.
60+
Years of combined coaching experience
140+
Students enrolled & growing
99+
Square meters of professional mat space.. to start with
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
A grappling-based martial art whose central theme is the skill of controlling a resisting opponent in ways that force him to submit. Much of the technique is centered around the skill of taking an opponent down to the ground and wrestling for dominant control positions from where the opponent can be rendered harmless.
___ Training classes for Children and Teens
Nairobi Jiu Jitsu Academy Kids Program is designed to build the next generation of champions by instilling important core values like confidence, self-discipline, respect, and more through the martial art of Jiu Jitsu. We offer specialized classes for different age groups.
Our children classes are structured to ensure a balance of learning and fun, making it an enjoyable experience for all participants.
Term-time and School Breaks
Our classes through the week start from 4pm Monday through Friday, with a full morning of classes on Saturdays. During school breaks we run fully engaging camps and intensives earlier in the day as well as our usual mid-afternoon schedule.
Baby Jitsu
Focused on introducing the basics of Jiu Jitsu through fun and engaging activities.
Class length | 1 Hour
Under 10’s
Emphasizing skill development, teamwork, and building a strong foundation in Jiu Jitsu techniques.
Class length | 1 Hour
Under 13’s
Preparing young athletes for more advanced techniques and competitive scenarios.
Class length | 1 Hour
___ Training classes for Adults
Adult Program
Our Adult Program offers classes 6 days a week with levels ranging from Beginners, Advanced, and Competition. The format, curriculum, and structure for each class are designed to ensure the best possible learning environment for all students.
Whether you are a beginner looking to start your Jiu Jitsu journey or an advanced practitioner aiming to hone your skills, our adult program caters to all needs. Join us to improve your fitness, learn self-defense, and become part of a supportive and motivating community.
Open Mat every Saturday.
Class length | 1 Hour
No Gi Program
The No Gi Program allows students training in the Gi to diversify their training with No Gi Jiu Jitsu. The curriculum focuses specifically on the techniques and positions found more commonly in No Gi, creating the perfect complement to the Gi programs offered by Nairobi Jiu Jitsu Academy.
This program is ideal for those looking to expand their skill set and adapt to different styles of grappling.
Class length | 1 Hour
MMA Classes
Our MMA classes combine striking, wrestling, and Jiu Jitsu to provide a comprehensive mixed martial arts training experience. Suitable for all levels, our MMA program is designed to develop well-rounded fighters capable of competing at any level.
Whether your goal is to compete or simply to improve your fitness and self-defense skills, our MMA classes offer a challenging and rewarding experience.
Class length | 1h 15 min
___ Instructors
Julio De Souza
Head Instructor
Julio Cezar De Souza, a black belt under Ricardo Testai of Kings MMA. Pioneer of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in East Africa, teaching since 2005 and practicing Jiu Jitsu since 1995.
With decades of experience and a deep passion for the art, Julio has dedicated his life to spreading the knowledge and benefits of Jiu Jitsu throughout the region.
His expertise and commitment have shaped Nairobi Jiu Jitsu Academy into a premier training facility, fostering a community of skilled and confident practitioners.
Ouhsummer Ali
Instructor
Ouhsummer Ali, a 3 Stripe purple belt under Dan Zalewski and Serafin of Onetribe Jiu-Jitsu. He has been training Jiu-Jitsu and judo since 2012 and teaching since 2016 at Mombasa Sharks Jiu-Jitsu club in Mombasa.
Widely regarded as the best active Jiu-Jitsu competitor in east Africa. Ouhsummer achievements include: East African Judo Champion 2016 and 2017; AJP Cairo 2025 Gold, AJP Doha 2025 Gold.
East Africa Jiu-Jitsu Champion 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2023; Nairobi open champion 2022 and 2023; Nairobi invitational Champion 2023.
___ Upcoming events
13th June 25
African Knockout Championship
•
Lagos, Nigeria
22nd June 25
ANZA MMA Promotions
•
The Alchemist, NBO
6th July 25
Rep Your City
•
NJJA, Thighiri, NBO
Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy 