Kenya hailed for its commitment in supporting martial arts

Kenyan team in South Korea for the World Tong Il Moo-Do. [Photo: Robin Toskin]

World martial arts body Tong Il Moo Do Federation has given a vote of confidence to Kenya over its commitment in supporting the sport.

The federation's Vice President Takamitsu Hoshiko singled out President Uhuru Kenyatta for his remarkable support, which he said reflected the rising standards of the sport in the country.

"Few Head of States have come out publicly to declare their support to the growth of Tong Il Moo Do and as the world body, we single out Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta as one of the global supporters of the sport," said Hoshiko at a press conference in Seoul Korea.

The championships starts tomorrow with a two-day action in Chungju, about 120km South of Seoul City.

Kenya is among the countries taking part in the World Masterships Martial Arts Championship.

Last week, President Uhuru assured the country that his administration is keen on harnessing and nurturing sporting talents among young Kenyans. "We must support sports to benefit gifted youngsters, " said the President.

Hoshiko said Kenya has improved in Tong Il Moo Do and needed support from all quarters.

"We hope and believe Kenya will maintain this form. We are satisfied to witness Kenya's impact in the sport, which clearly reflects the growing standards of the sport," said Hoshiko, who is also the president of the Japan federation.

In the past decade, Kenya has grown to become the second-best nation after Philippines in the sport.

He said Japan will use the tournament to preach peace between his country and South Korea.

"The relationship between Japan and South Korea has been unstable and we hope bringing Japanese and South Korea players together will improve the relationship between the two states," said Hoshiko.