Kenya Gears Up for World Under-21 Taekwondo Championships
Kenya Taekwondo Federation President Major (Rtd.)Suleiman Sumba (4th from right) presents the overall trophy won by the Kenya Under-21 Team during the just concluded Korean Ambassador’s Cup in Kampala to the Principal Sports Officer, Department of Sports in the Ministry of Sports, Jackson Munywoki (3rd from right). This was during the unveiling of the Under-21 Taekwondo National Team to represent the country during next month’s World Under 21 Taekwondo Championship in Nairobi.
Kenya is preparing to host the World Under-21 Taekwondo Championships, a major global event expected to attract participants from across continents. The championship is projected to draw a viewership exceeding 500 million people, making it one of the largest sporting events ever staged in the country.
The championship, scheduled for December in Nairobi, will provide a platform for young athletes under 21 to showcase their talent. Organisers say it will stimulate tourism, boost economic activity, and promote Kenya internationally. Beyond sports, the event aims to raise awareness about environmental sustainability and engage youth in advocacy for conservation.
Speaking during preparations in Nairobi, Major Suleiman Sumba, President of the Taekwondo Federation of Kenya, described the championship as “the biggest event ever to be hosted in Kenya”. He highlighted its potential to enhance Kenya’s global profile and empower young athletes.
“We have not had an event that brings together this many countries. It will generate movement, promote Kenya globally, and give our young people the chance to represent the country on the world stage,” Sumba said.
He noted that the federation has partnered with local and international stakeholders, including the Kenya Wildlife Service, to integrate environmental conservation initiatives into the tournament.
“These are young people under 21 future decision-makers and exposing them to Kenya’s culture and environmental consciousness will make a lasting impact,” he added.
Sumba acknowledged limited resources but praised the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and government support for advancing preparations.
“We have done so much without major government funding, and we appreciate the support given so far. We are also engaging sponsors to meet the remaining financial requirements,” he said.
Kenya’s preparations have been strengthened by the national team’s performance at the Korean Ambassador’s Cup in Uganda, where both men’s and women’s teams won overall. The team secured 11 gold, two silver, and two bronze medals, boosting morale ahead of the World Championships.
Coach Joseph Mwanda said the victory was a confidence booster.
“Uganda was tough, but we fought to the end and won. That victory gives us confidence heading into the World Championships. We only need to fine-tune our guard techniques and increase training intensity,” he said.
Dock Stacy, women’s team captain, said representing Kenya at home is a source of pride and motivation.
“It’s an honour to wear the Kenyan colours and host the world. We’ve proven we are the best in the region, and we’re ready to show it globally,” she said.
The team will undergo a two-week high-performance training camp in Ivory Coast before returning to Nairobi for the championship. Sumba said that some equipment needed for international standards is yet to arrive, but training continues using local resources.
“We are using the equipment available locally while waiting for sponsorship and additional supplies. Once the equipment is here, I am confident the team will perform excellently,” he said.
Sumba emphasised that the championship is more than a competition; it is a platform for youth development, economic growth, and environmental awareness.
“Sports can drive economic growth, environmental awareness, and unity. This championship will leave a lasting legacy for our young people and for Kenya,” he said.
With rigorous preparation, government support, and community engagement, Kenya aims to stage a world-class championship that will inspire athletes, showcase the nation, and promote environmental consciousness.
