By: Kebba Ansu Manneh
Kenya has declared itself completely ready to host the World Under-21 Taekwondo Championships, with more than 80 countries already confirmed and expectations soaring to over 140 participants, marking a monumental global gathering in Nairobi later this year.
The Kenya Taekwondo Federation (KTF), via its Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, announced during a high-profile press briefing today. The event also unveiled Team Kenya—a balanced squad of eight boys and eight girls—and emphasized the championship’s pioneering carbon-neutral theme: “Taekwondo Values For Climate Action.”
KTF President Major (Rtd) Suleiman Sumba led the revelations, stating that recent inspections by World Taekwondo officials over the weekend endorsed Kenya’s venues as “world-class” and fully compliant with international standards. Kenya is ready. Our athletes, venues, and support systems have all met international benchmarks,” Sumba declared. He highlighted how the event aligns with national sustainability goals, including Kenya’s ambitious plan to plant 15 billion trees by 2032.
Last month, KTF launched the #KenyaYetuMsituWetu initiative, aiming to plant 11,000 trees to offset the environmental impact of the championships. “Hosting the world under this theme demonstrates that sport can be a catalyst for both human excellence and environmental consciousness,” Sumba added.
Team Kenya’s 16 athletes are currently in a residential high-performance camp, fine-tuning for the African Series Championships in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, starting November 15. This continental tune-up will sharpen their skills before defending home turf. “Our team is in top shape and ready to make Kenya proud,” Sumba affirmed.
The championships promise over 1,000 athletes, coaches, and officials from powerhouses such as South Korea, Russia, Israel, Brazil, Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa, solidifying Kenya’s status as a premier African host for major sporting events.
Jackson Munywoki, Principal Sports Officer representing the Ministry, praised KTF’s vision. “This championship exemplifies Kenya’s growing stature in global sport management. It underscores the government’s commitment to positioning sport as a vehicle for youth development, economic growth, and environmental stewardship,” he said.
Logistics are in the final stages, with accreditation, transportation, venue setup, and technical coordination all having been approved through collaborations with World Taekwondo and local stakeholders. Sumba assured seamless execution in organization, security, and hospitality.
Sustainability partner TBL (Tenants Become Landlords) Go Green Initiative is central, integrating tree planting, renewable energy, and community eco-programs for full carbon neutrality. Director Jeff Kefa stated, “This event shows that sport can lead the climate action agenda. Every match and every medal will leave a positive imprint on the planet.”
Media accreditation is now open via the official portal, inviting global journalists to cover this landmark event. With the world watching, Nairobi is poised to deliver a championship blending athletic prowess with planetary purpose.
