Tong Il Moo Do World Heavyweight Champion, Salma Ali, has launched Kenya’s first all-female martial arts academy in Mombasa.
The academy, focused on the Korean martial art Tong-Il Moo-Do, combines strength, discipline, and unity.
Salma, who was honoured as a national hero by President William Ruto on Madaraka Day, shared that her new initiative aims to address the socio-economic challenges faced by schoolgirls and young women, particularly in underserved communities.
“I’m focusing on Mombasa’s neighbourhood’s, especially slum areas, where girls often face significant socio-economic barriers,” Salma explained. “This academy will provide opportunities for them to develop not just martial arts skills but also self-confidence and leadership.”
The academy has already received interest from local schools, including Jeffrey School, Aga Khan Academy, Sheikh Zayed Education Center, Cubaa School, and Light Academy. Salma also hopes to engage young women from Mombasa’s various neighborhoods.
The launch event was attended by notable figures from the martial arts community, including Tong Il Moo Do coaches David Amakanji and Gilbert Mayar, as well as Salma’s teammates Muli Kathini, Eunice Wambugha, Nina Inan, and Kayla Nyambura.
