Nairobi: The Kenya Taekwondo Federation (KTF) has joined the rest of the country in greening the environment by launching a major tree planting initiative as part of its commitment to environmental conservation. The event is part of the federation's preparation for the upcoming World U-21 Taekwondo Championships to be held in Nairobi from 3rd to 6th December 2025.
According to Kenya News Agency, this championship is billed as the world's first carbon-neutral taekwondo event and is expected to draw global attention with participants from 140 countries. The initiative, which targets to plant 11,000 trees, supports Kenya's national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032 and aligns with the World Taekwondo Federation's global sustainability agenda that champions climate resilience and youth empowerment through sport.
Speaking at the Kasarani stadium during the event, KTF President Major (Rtd) Suleiman Sumba expressed pride in contributing to Kenya's green agenda. He highlighted that every tree planted reflects the Taekwondo spirit of discipline, endurance, and respect for life. He emphasized the importance of showcasing Kenya as a champion for sustainability as the nation prepares to host more than 3,000 athletes and officials from 140 countries this December.
Kevin Kiarie, Legal Advisor at the State Department for Sports, praised the federation's initiative as a model for sports-driven environmental action. He reiterated the Ministry's commitment to supporting the government's target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, with plans to plant five million trees by the Department for Sports and ten million by the Ministry as a whole by 2028.
Juliana Murugi from the Department for Sports echoed the sentiments, acknowledging the federation's initiative as a demonstration of how sports can inspire national pride and environmental consciousness. She affirmed the Ministry's full support for programs linking athletic excellence with ecological responsibility.
The launch of the initiative was hosted by Sports Kenya Acting Director General Gabriel Komora at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani. Through this initiative, KTF aims to leave behind not just sporting memories but a green legacy that reinforces Kenya's leadership in both sports and sustainability.