The 12th edition of the Mombasa Open Tong IL Moo Do International Tournament, set to begin on December 20th at the Aga Khan Academy, hangs in the balance as the Kenyan government is yet to release the necessary funds. Kenya now risks a ban and a hefty fine from the World Tong IL Moo Do Federation if the tournament is postponed for a second time, following its initial delay in August.
The country’s impressive legacy in Tong IL Moo Do, highlighted by a haul of 46 gold, 54 silver, and 93 bronze medals at last year’s event, faces a serious threat. Hundreds of athletes whose careers depend on the sport are now at risk, should the tournament fail to take place.
Elvis Malipe, Assistant Secretary General of the Kenya Tong IL Moo Do Federation (KTMF), expressed his concerns, emphasizing the immense efforts taken to popularize the sport in Kenya and secure global recognition.
“It’s obvious that once we get banned, I don’t know for how long. This sport will slowly die because the upcoming youngsters won’t find any need to participate in it without competitions,” Malipe said.
“The global body has been kind enough to give Kenya a second chance after our first attempt failed back in August. We have over 300 guests from 35 countries expected. It will be a shame for us not to at least honour that, because we can solve our internal issues later.”
Despite the funding delays, teams from other countries have already arrived in Mombasa in preparation for the event. If the government fails to act by Friday this week, Kenya could lose its global standing in Tong IL Moo Do, potentially jeopardizing the future of the sport in the country.
