Kenya’s long-standing legacy in Tong IL Moo Do is at risk if the government does not provide funding for this week’s Mombasa Open championships, a global event that could otherwise be cancelled.
For the past 11 years, Kenya has successfully hosted the Mombasa Open Tong IL Moo Do championships.
However, if the event fails to take place this year, Kenya risks being banned by the international martial arts governing body.
The 12th edition of the international competition is scheduled to begin this Friday at the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa.
Kenya had previously missed the opportunity to host the event in August.
Elvis Malipe, Assistant Secretary General of the Kenya Tong IL Moo Do Federation (KTMF), emphasized the significant efforts made to promote the sport in Kenya and secure global recognition.
He stressed that the country cannot afford to lose its international status due to a lack of financial support from the government.
Malipe also noted that the global body had generously given Kenya a second chance after the initial failure in August.
“We are expecting over 300 guests from 35 countries. It would be a disgrace not to honour this event, especially when we can address our internal issues later,” he said.
The federation members pleading with Sports Ministry to release funds.
Carlos Nuñez, President of the Paraguayan Federation of Tong-Il Moo Do, who arrived in Mombasa on Sunday, expressed hope for a last-minute resolution.
He added that his team was determined to defend the titles they won in 2023.