Boxing's bitter legacy: how a congolese woman found strength in the ring
Driven by vengeance after her father’s murder, Clarck Ntambwe’s journey from the gym to the African Boxing Championships is a testament to resilience and a searing indictment of violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
A fight for justice, forged in blood
Matthew Leutwyler’s haunting new film, Fight Like a Girl, doesn’t shy away from the brutal reality of Ntambwe’s past. Initially seeking retribution for her father’s death, she found a path towards healing and self-discovery through the unforgiving discipline of boxing. The film meticulously traces this transformation, showcasing her initial rage in the gym – a space where anger was palpable – to her eventual rise as a formidable competitor.
Inspired by a fallen champion
The film's genesis lies in the life of Balezi “Kibomango” Bagunda, a former child soldier turned boxing champion who trained women in Goma. Kibomango’s legacy—and his tragic assassination by M23 rebels shortly after the film’s completion—forms a poignant backdrop to Ntambwe’s story. Leutwyler, who spent thirteen years documenting conflict in Africa, initially filmed a documentary about Kibomango’s life, a project that unexpectedly intersected with Ntambwe’s own.
A shadow of war, a spark of hope
Leutwyler recounts the moment he encountered Ntambwe: “We have this in the documentary because, when we found out why Clarck wanted to learn how to fight, we sat her down and said: ‘You cannot join the gym if that’s the case. That’s not what we do.’” It took time, and with the guidance of Kibomango, for Ntambwe to channel her pain into the disciplined pursuit of boxing. Her journey is interwoven with the devastating realities of life in Goma, a city repeatedly targeted by rebel forces and a stark reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
More than a fight, a family
“At first, when I do boxing, it really was to get revenge on the people who killed my dad,” Ntambwe reveals, switching seamlessly between English and Swahili. “But my grandpa had been the first boxing trainer for Kibomango. He taught Kibo how to fight and so I was boxing for me and for my family.” She vividly recalls her connection with Kibomango, describing her emotional response to his death: “I met Kibomango because I saw photos of the women he trained on Instagram… He was a legend in Congo.”
A raw, unflinching portrait
The film’s power lies not just in Ntambwe's story, but in its authentic portrayal of the women of Goma – many of whom have endured horrific sexual violence. Leutwyler deliberately cast both professional actors and local residents, creating a visceral experience for the viewer. Ama Qamata, playing a version of Ntambwe, delivers a stunning performance, capturing the character's internal struggle and unwavering determination.
Beyond the ring: a call to action
Fight Like a Girl isn't simply a boxing drama; it’s a vital window into a conflict zone largely ignored by Western media. Leutwyler emphasizes the need to recognize the human cost of these events, stating, “What matters to me is championing African stories.” The film serves as a potent reminder that behind the statistics and headlines, there are individuals fighting for survival, dignity, and a future free from violence.