African Bodybuilding Stars Take Centre Stage on CNN’s African Voices Playmakers
African Bodybuilding Stars Take Centre Stage on CNN’s African Voices Playmakers
Samson Dauda, Evelyn Okinyi Owala and Kamal Elgargni have shared their inspiring journeys and contributions to the growth of bodybuilding in Africa in the latest episode of CNN’s African Voices Playmakers.
The programme, hosted by CNN correspondent Larry Madowo, spotlights three leading African bodybuilding figures from Nigeria, Kenya and Libya who are helping to reshape the continent’s presence in one of the world’s most demanding sports.
The episode features Nigerian-born, UK-based bodybuilder Samson Dauda, Kenyan fitness entrepreneur Evelyn Okinyi Owala and Libyan bodybuilding legend Kamal Elgargni, whose careers have taken them to some of the biggest stages in international bodybuilding, including Mr. Olympia and the Arnold Classic.
Dauda, popularly known as the “Nigerian Lion,” is profiled as he prepares for another appearance at Mr. Olympia, bodybuilding’s most prestigious competition.
Reflecting on his historic achievement of becoming only the second Nigerian to win the title in 2024, Dauda said the accomplishment was a source of immense pride.
He explained that his journey into bodybuilding was initially influenced by his rugby career, which eventually led him to the gym and, ultimately, to the highest level of professional bodybuilding.
The programme also examines the important role played by Dauda’s wife and coach, Marlena Gustowska. Her coaching partnership with Dauda attracted criticism when she was appointed, but the pair went on to achieve historic success, with Gustowska becoming the first female coach to guide an athlete to a Mr. Olympia victory.
Gustowska also spoke about the need for greater representation of women in bodybuilding and coaching, advocating for more women to have a voice in the sport.
In Nairobi, Owala recounts how personal health challenges sparked her entry into fitness. After dealing with recurring cysts and severe asthma, she began exercising to improve her wellbeing.
Her fitness journey subsequently developed into a successful career, making her one of Africa’s prominent fitness advocates. A former Arnold Classic Africa champion and world championship medallist, Owala now uses her platform to encourage more women to embrace strength and weight training.
She challenged the perception that weight training is primarily a masculine pursuit, urging women to view fitness as an inclusive human activity.
Meanwhile, 54-year-old Elgargni discusses his preparations for a return to the Mr. Olympia stage after a career spanning more than three decades.
The Libyan bodybuilding veteran, who has won both the Arnold Classic and Mr. Olympia, reflects on his achievements across Africa, Europe and Asia, as well as his transition into mentoring younger athletes.
Among those he has coached is Nigerian bodybuilding star Andrew Jacked, with Elgargni expressing pride in their work together and the younger athlete’s progress.
As he weighs retirement from competitive bodybuilding, Elgargni says he hopes to devote more time to his family while continuing to contribute to the development of the next generation of African bodybuilding talents.
The stories of Dauda, Owala and Elgargni collectively highlight the discipline, resilience and determination required to excel in bodybuilding while demonstrating the growing influence of African athletes on the global stage.
Their achievements also underscore the increasing opportunities for African competitors and the potential of the continent’s emerging generation of bodybuilding and fitness talents.
CNN African Voices Playmakers Broadcast Schedule
The episode airs on CNN International at the following times, all in West Africa Time (WAT):
- Saturday, August 8, 2026: 7:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
- Sunday, August 9: 3:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
- Monday, August 10: 3:00 a.m. and 5:45 p.m.
- Tuesday, August 11: 5:45 p.m.
- Saturday, August 15: 7:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:30 a.m.
- Sunday, August 16: 6:00 p.m.
- Monday, August 17: 3:00 a.m.
The episode offers viewers an inside look at the journeys of three athletes whose accomplishments are helping to elevate African bodybuilding and inspire a new generation to pursue excellence on the international stage.
No comments