Erbil province's young ninjas aspire to global recognition

SORAN, Kurdistan Region — The nature of Erbil province is currently home to a stealthy, centuries-old Japanese art form.

In Erbil’s Soran district, twenty young people train as ninjas for four days of the week.

"The sport we are doing is very rare in Kurdistan [Region]. We want to develop it in Kurdistan," ninja warrior Zirak Ramazan said.

Ninjas originated in Japan as agents specialising in espionage and surprise attacks. They need to be physically strong and mentally disciplined.

Soran's ninjas hope to take part in local and world championships someday.

"Our main goal is to be able to raise our country's flag at championships, and for our young people to have strong bodies and self-esteem," ninja trainer Sherzad Muslih said.

The young ninjas say they need funding to take their art form further.

"We've yet to receive support to help us promote this sport in the Kurdistan Region.," ninja warrior Abdullah Nasr said. "We'll keep going until we get a sponsor."

Translation and video editing by Sarkawt Mohammed