The Busia County Government has been urged to incorporate taekwondo and other sporting disciplines into the annual Governor’s Cup tournament to broaden exposure and promote talent development among the youth.
Speaking to the Kenya News Agency on the phone, Busia Taekwondo Federation President Dan Omugogo appealed to the county government to support the sport to enable athletes and officials to effectively carry out their activities.
He said the appeal comes amid financial challenges that saw the federation miss participation in the World Under-21 Taekwondo Championships held at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani in Nairobi from December 3 to 6, 2025. The event attracted over 75 countries and more than 452 athletes.
Omugogo noted that the county government has largely focused on football as the main sport for youth engagement, leaving out other disciplines that have the potential to positively transform the lives of young people.
He added that despite the challenges, the federation managed to host the first-ever County Taekwondo Championship last year and plans to continue seeking county support.
This comes as the federation outlines several activities planned for this year, including the launch of the Alupe University Taekwondo Club on February 21, targeting universities across East Africa.
Omugogo said Taekwondo has grown across the county, nurturing local talent, with over 26 clubs operating in Teso North, Teso South, Butula, Matayos and Samia sub-counties.
The clubs range from community-based teams to those in learning institutions, including Chemasiri Technical Training Institute and Changara Primary and Secondary Schools, alongside community clubs such as Chatas, Akadot, Aloyet Apokor, Adumai, Kawalum, Kocholia and Kidera.
According to Omugogo, the sport has enabled many youths from Busia to travel locally and internationally while gaining exposure, discipline and life skills through competition.
By Moses Wekesa
