By Eddah Waithaka
The Kenya Taekwondo Federation (KTF) is punching above its weight in the fight against climate change, launching a major tree-planting initiative to cement its upcoming World U-21 Taekwondo Championships as the first carbon-neutral event in the sport’s history.
Dubbed #KenyaYetuMsituWetu, the campaign symbolises a union of discipline and environmental responsibility.
The federation aims to plant 11,000 trees, supporting Kenya’s national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
The initiative, launched in partnership with the event’s Local Organising Committee, also prepares the ground for the World U-21 Taekwondo Championships, which Nairobi will host from December 3-6, 2025.
The tournament expects to draw 3,000 athletes and officials from 140 countries.Speaking at the launch event hosted by Sports Kenya at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, KTF President Major (Rtd.)
Suleiman Sumba linked the initiative to the core values of the sport.“Every tree we plant reflects the Taekwondo spirit – discipline, endurance, and respect for life,” Sumba said.
“We want the world to see Kenya not just as a sporting nation but as a champion for sustainability.”
Officials from the State Department of Sports praised the federation for creating a model of sports-driven environmental action.Kevin Kiarie, Legal Advisor for the State Department of Sports, reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to the national tree-planting goal.
“By 2028, the Department of Sports will plant five million trees while the Ministry as a whole will achieve 10 million trees,” Kiarie stated.
Juliana Murugi from the Department of Sports echoed this support, saying, “The Ministry fully supports such programs that link athletic excellence with ecological responsibility.”
Through this green campaign, the Kenya Taekwondo Federation aims to leave a living legacy that reinforces Kenya’s leadership on the global sporting and environmental stage.
