Kenya’s long-established reputation in Tong IL Moo Do is under threat if the government fails to secure funding for this week’s Mombasa Open championships, which could otherwise be cancelled.
For the past 11 years, Kenya has successfully hosted the Mombasa Open Tong IL Moo Do championships.
However, the country now faces the risk of being banned by the international martial arts governing body if the event does not take place this year.
The 12th edition of the international competition is set to begin this Friday at the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa. Kenya had already missed the opportunity to host the event in August.
Elvis Malipe, Assistant Secretary General of the Kenya Tong IL Moo Do Federation (KTMF), highlighted the extensive efforts made to promote the sport in Kenya and secure its global recognition.
He emphasized that the country cannot afford to lose its international standing due to a lack of government financial support.
Malipe also pointed out that the global body had offered Kenya a second chance after the initial cancellation 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.
Carlos Nuñez, President of the Paraguayan Federation of Tong IL Moo Do, who arrived in Mombasa on Sunday, expressed hope for a last-minute solution.
He also stated that his team was eager to defend the titles they won in 2023.
