The Kenya Tong-IL Moodo Federation has appealed to the government to expedite funding for the 11th edition of the Mombasa Open Championship competition as preparations begin earnestly.

Clarence Mwakio, president of the Kenya Tong-Il Moo-Do Federation, disclosed that at least 42 countries worldwide have confirmed their participation in the annual event scheduled at the Aga Khan Hall in Mombasa from December 9 to 20, 2023.

Last year, the event encountered funding challenges when the Ministry of Sports delayed the release of funds for the global annual event. To avoid a similar situation, the federation’s top brass is now urging the swift release of funds.

“This is a world championship status event; therefore, we plead with the government to expedite the funding release so that we can finalize the remaining preparations. We’ve completed everything we are waiting for funding,” stated Mwakio.

The Mombasa Open Tong-IL Moo-Do International Martial Arts Championship stands as the first martial arts program of its kind in Africa. Around 600 participants will take part in the event.

Established in 2013 after the KTMF, with support from the Sports Ministry, lobbied for an international event in Kenya.

“The entire budget for this Mombasa Open Tong-IL Moo-Do International Championship is slightly above Sh500 million. Part of it is covered by the world body, pledging support of about Sh100 million, with an additional Sh100 million for obligations from foreign teams. We have requested government support for the national team as part of the hosting budget, and we’ll seek the remaining Sh190 million from sponsors,” Mwakio detailed.

This year, a contingent of over 60 players from Jasiri Team Kenya will compete across all age categories and disciplines. Iran and the Philippines have confirmed their intent to bring more players compared to the previous competition.