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.
Billed as the world’s first carbon-neutral taekwondo championship, it is expected to draw global attention with participants drawn from 140 countries.
Unveiled in partnership with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the upcoming World U-21 Taekwondo Championships, the campaign dubbed #KenyaYetuMsituWetu symbolises unity, discipline and environmental responsibility.
The initiative, which targets to plant 11,000 trees, supports Kenya’s national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, aligns with the World Taekwondo Federation’s global sustainability agenda, which champions climate resilience and youth empowerment through sport.
Speaking at the Kasarani stadium during the event, KTF President Major (Rtd) Suleiman Sumba said the federation was proud to contribute to Kenya’s green agenda.
“Every tree we plant is a reflection of the Taekwondo spirit of discipline, endurance and respect for life. As we prepare to host more than 3,000 athletes and officials from 140 countries this December, we want the world to see Kenya not just as a sporting nation but as a champion for sustainability,” he said.
Kevin Kiarie, Legal Advisor State Department for Sports, lauded the federation’s initiative, describing it as a model for sports-driven environmental action that demonstrates how sports can inspire national pride and environmental consciousness.
“As we launch this initiative, I reiterate the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the government’s target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032. By 2028, the Department for Sports will plant five million trees, while the Ministry as a whole will achieve 10 million trees,” he said.
Juliana Murugi from the Department for Sports echoed the same sentiments, saying, “The federation’s initiative beautifully demonstrates how sports can inspire national pride and environmental consciousness. The Ministry fully supports such programs that link 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.
By Joseph Ng’ang’a
