Mestre Moa do Katendê, born Romualdo Rosário da Costa on October 29, 1954, in Salvador, Bahia, is celebrated as one of the most influential figures in the world of Capoeira Angola. A gifted composer, percussionist, artisan, educator, and mestre, he transcended the role of capoeira teacher to become a beacon of cultural resistance and resilience.

From a young age, Mestre Moa was immersed in the rich traditions of Capoeira, beginning his training at just eight years old in the terreiro of his aunt, Ilê Axé Omin Bain. His deep connection to the cultural and spiritual roots of Bahia shaped his identity and his approach to capoeira. A notable milestone in his career was winning the Ilê Aiyê song contest in 1977, which showcased his multifaceted talent and his commitment to promoting the African-Brazilian heritage. Moa also became a prominent figure in the afoxé movement, bringing Candomblé to the streets and ensuring the preservation of this sacred tradition.

In 1978, Mestre Moa founded the Badauê group, and in 1995, he established the "Friends of Katendê," named after a Bantu practice of transforming leaves into medicine—a powerful symbol of resistance and healing. Through his initiatives, he fostered a community of capoeiristas who embraced both the martial art and the culture surrounding it.

Mestre Moa do Katendê was not only a mestre of Capoeira Angola but also a vocal critic of the political landscape, most notably opposing the regime of Jair Bolsonaro. His political activism, though, would tragically lead to his untimely death. On October 8, 2018, he was tragically stabbed twelve times by a Bolsonaro supporter, a victim of political violence that shocked Brazil and the world. His legacy, however, remains far from diminished.

In his memory, the Mestre Moa do Katendê Institute is being constructed in the Dique Pequeno community in Salvador, a project driven by Moa's family, friends, and fellow capoeiristas, as the government has not provided support. This institute will be a living tribute to Moa’s vision of building a space for community, culture, and capoeira.

Mestre Moa’s influence extends beyond the capoeira community, leaving an indelible mark on music and culture. In 2022, two documentaries were created in his honor—“Quem vai quebrar a máquina do mal?” (Who will destroy the machinery of evil?), and "Môa, Raiz Afro Mãe," directed by Carlos Pronzato and Gustavo McNair, respectively. These films capture his life, his artistry, and his unwavering commitment to his people.

Mestre Moa do Katendê's music, his teachings, and his relentless pursuit of cultural preservation will live on. His story, filled with passion, vision, and resistance, will continue to inspire future generations of capoeiristas and artists worldwide. Through his memory, we honor not just the mestre, but the powerful cultural force he represented. His legacy remains a testament to the strength and beauty of capoeira, African-Brazilian culture, and the pursuit of justice.