Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko’s journey, from the tatami mats of Toliara to the helm of international judo bodies and the realm of politics, paints a vivid picture of a multifaceted and accomplished individual.
At the age of 12, Siteny was introduced to the discipline of judo by Maître Ashikhoussen Mamodaly. What started as a fascination transformed into a lifelong passion, with Siteny not only honing his own skills but also committing to spread the sport’s values and techniques in Toliara, becoming a judo instructor himself.
His impressive athletic abilities quickly set him apart. Over the course of his career, from 1989 to 2003, he clinched multiple national titles, cementing his position as Madagascar’s judo prodigy. His dedication and prowess earned him spots in international competitions, representing Madagascar in prestigious events such as the African Championships, the Athens Olympic Games, and the Indian Ocean Island Games. The peak of his athletic achievements came in 1995, where he clinched the 5th spot in the African Championship. Beyond his accomplishments as a competitor, Siteny’s judo journey took him to Japan in 1998, where he trained and became an international judo instructor. This was soon followed by his tenure as the national coach from 2006 to 2009.
However, Siteny’s passion wasn’t confined to just competing and coaching. He sought to shape the landscape of judo in Madagascar. Leading the Madagascar Judo Federation from 2010 to 2021 and then ascending to the presidency of the Malagasy Olympic Committee in 2011, Siteny’s administrative skills began to shine. His capability in organizing major events, like the African Judo Championship in Antananarivo in 2017 and 2020, drew attention to his prowess as a sports administrator on the international stage.
In a crowning achievement, Siteny’s election as the president of the African Judo Union (UAJ) in May 2021, and consequently his vice-presidential position in the International Judo Federation, showcased not just his influence but also marked a milestone for Madagascar. His appointment, the first of its kind for a Malagasy, was celebrated with fervor, not only in his hometown of Toliara but also among political, economic, academic, and civil society leaders across Madagascar.
Drawing from his extensive experience in the sporting world, both as a champion and a leader, Siteny has applied these lessons to other spheres of his life, including politics and business. Rooted in the core principles of bushido—the moral code of judo—such as friendship, sincerity, honor, modesty, respect, politeness, courage, and self-control, Siteny approaches challenges with a unique blend of determination and integrity.
