All Smiles as World Tong-IL Moo-Do Event Back on Track Two Years Down the Line

By Mbungu Harrison

The Mombasa Open Tong-IL Moo-Do International Martial Arts Championships has made a come back after failing to kick off for two consecutive years due some unavoidable technicalities.

The 12 Edition event has officially kicked off at the Aga Khan Hall in Mombasa County, drawing athletes and officials from across the globe.

Over 200 athletes are taking part in the competition, which is expected to culminate in a grand finale where accolades will be awarded to outstanding performers in sparring, individual forms, and special techniques disciplines.

Speaking in Mombasa on Friday, December 19, 2025, Kenya Tong-IL Moo-Do Federation President Clarence Mwakio said the successful staging of this year’s championship was made possible through government support led by sports cabinet secretary Salim Mvurya.

Mwakio applauded the government for its continued backing of the sport saying 20 foreign teams were expected to arrive on Friday and Saturday as the competition continues over the next three days.

“We thank the cabinet secretaries for making the event a success because we are back to our calendar event after the ban. We are grateful because the government has stood with us,” he said.

According to him the number of foreign participants was slightly lower this year due to logistical challenges.

Master Clarence Mwakio in deep consultation with his officials. (Photo By Mwakwaya Raymond)

Athletes are competing in sparring, individual forms, and special techniques, with different categories for both men and women.

Kenya’s national team, Jasiri, is aiming to reign supreme and defend its title.

The CS is among the dignitaries expected to grace the event over the weekend.

Mwakio thanked sponsors who came on board to support the championship saying their contribution was crucial to the growth of the sport.

“We are grateful to all our sponsors who have come on board. They are key in making this sport grow as we nurture talents.”

He revealed that 37 academies have so far been established across Kenyan counties to develop young talent.

“This tournament has brought life to our sports tourism because it is creating employment, promoting cultural exchange, and making Mombasa city recognized globally.”

World Tong-IL Moo-Do Federation President, Grandmaster Tokamitso Hoshiko thanked Kenya for hosting the Mombasa Open Championship and expressed optimism that the sport could one day feature in the Olympic Games.

“We are developing the sport within countries and with that we expect to get recognition into the Olympics,” he said.

“We are grateful for leaders in Kenya and Master Clarence Mwakio for making the event a success. We are hoping in the future the sport will feature in the Olympics.”

Among the participating foreign teams is Vanuatu, competing in the championship for the first time. Vanuatu head coach Mharjude Delos Santos expressed gratitude for the warm reception.

A section of the Athletes warming up for the competition. (Photo by Mwakwaya Raymond)

“We are happy to be part of this sport and also glad that Mombasa has welcomed us well,” he said in Mombasa.

Also present was Tong-IL Moo-Do founder Joon Hyoseuk, who applauded the Kenyan government for its continued support of the sport.

“We are not fighting against each other; we are fighting for physical fitness, we are fighting for peace, we are fighting for justice, and we thank the government for supporting the sport,” he said.