Residents of Imenti North Sub- County Meru County have urged the governments to treat Taekwondo with the same level of seriousness as they do with popular sports like football, volleyball, and athletics.
Coaches and parents within the Taekwondo community assert that, despite existing stereotypes, this martial art is a legitimate talent that can provide income opportunities while promoting discipline and self-defense.
Alex Naibei, a Taekwondo trainer, emphasized the sport’s potential to help young girls build self-confidence, which can play a vital role in reducing incidents of gender-based violence.
Naibei noted that during school holidays many youngsters are encouraged to enrol to be trained in self defence skills.
“Our goal is to mentor youngsters. Many possess untapped talents in Taekwondo. The government should allocate funds to this sport to develop and empower these individuals, enabling them not only to excel in Kenya but also to represent the country on the Olympic stage,” he remarked.
Naibei noted that Taekwondo is a safe sport, as competitors are required to wear protective gear and follow strict rules during matches.
Santa Kagendo, the coordinator of the Young Women Christian Association in Meru, highlighted a common misconception among parents who perceive Taekwondo as a dangerous sport.
“We appeal to the government to promote Taekwondo by integrating it into all public-school sports programs, just as it does with other sporting activities. Participation can enhance children’s intelligence and discipline,” she stated.
Kagendo emphasized on the need for the Taekwondo sport to be integrated into the school sports program citing that it will help create awareness.
“Taekwondo as a sport has been stereotyped by many people as a sport for gangsters, however I would like to urge youngsters to join the training as it equips them with skills to defend themselves and also the society at large,” she said.
Kagendo urged the government to allocate a special fund for the taekwondo sport in order to create awareness and at the same time enrol many youths for training.
Jackline Makena expressed pride in her son Baraka Nolan’s involvement in Taekwondo, which she believes fosters discipline, courage, and self-defense skills.
“I’m thrilled that my son is learning to be a fighter. This sport keeps him engaged and away from idle activities or drugs,” she shared.
By Muguongo Judy
