MERU: Residents of Imenti North Sub-County in Meru County are calling on the government to give Taekwondo the same attention and resources as it allocates to more established sports such as football, volleyball, and athletics. This appeal comes from a community of coaches and parents who believe Taekwondo can offer significant benefits, including income opportunities, discipline, and self-defense skills.

According to Kenya News Agency, Alex Naibei, a local Taekwondo trainer, has highlighted the sport’s potential to bolster the self-confidence of young girls, which can be instrumental in reducing gender-based violence. He noted that many youth are encouraged to join Taekwondo training during school holidays to learn self-defense skills. Naibei further stressed the importance of government funding to nurture this talent, enabling athletes to excel both locally and internationally, including on the Olympic stage.

Santa Kagendo, the coordinator of the Young Women Christian Association in Meru, pointed out the p
revalent misconception that Taekwondo is inherently dangerous. She urged the government to integrate Taekwondo into public school sports programs, emphasizing its potential to enhance intelligence and discipline among children. Kagendo also called for a special fund to boost awareness and encourage youth participation in Taekwondo, countering stereotypes that label it a sport for gangsters.

Jackline Makena, a parent of a young Taekwondo enthusiast, expressed her pride in her son Baraka Nolan’s involvement in the sport. She believes that Taekwondo fosters discipline, courage, and valuable self-defense skills, keeping her son engaged and away from negative influences such as drugs.

The community’s collective plea is for the government to recognize and support Taekwondo as a legitimate and beneficial sport, capable of empowering youth and contributing positively to Kenyan society.