Judo Federation: We're making deliberate efforts to popularise the sport

The Kenya Judo Federation vice president Duncan Chemiryo says the association is taking deliberate steps to take the game to the grassroots.

This is after more than 100 judokas from across the country gathered at the Kenya Medical Training College in Kitui Campus over the weekend for the National League, marking a significant milestone in the federation’s efforts to decentralize the sport, and Chemiryo says this is a strategy aimed at discovering and nurturing talent from all corners of the country.

"This is the second time we’re hosting the national league outside Nairobi, and the turnout is a clear indication that our efforts are paying off. It’s encouraging to see even Under-10 participants taking part—something that’s rarely seen during school sessions. Kitui has really embraced the sport,” said Chemiryo.

Chemiryo emphasized the importance of bringing judo closer to communities and schools across the counties, in line with the broader national goal of devolving sports. “We want to extend our reach from counties to schools because we all know sports is now devolved. We need support from all sectors to grow judo,” he added.

KJF Deputy Secretary General Kennedy Kwithya also commended Kitui’s local leadership for integrating judo into school programs, describing it as a step in the right direction for the future of the sport.

“We’re championing the ‘Judo in Schools’ initiative, which is supported by the International Judo Federation. Our focus is on the youth—the juniors and cadets—because that’s where the future lies. And already, we’re seeing great potential among these young athletes,” Kwithya said.

The Kitui edition of the national league signals KJF’s ongoing mission to grow judo beyond its traditional strongholds, ensuring that more young Kenyans are exposed to the sport and its values of discipline, respect, and self-defense.

 KJF Deputy Secretary General Kennedy Kwithya also commended Kitui’s local leadership for integrating judo into school programs, ensuring that more young Kenyans are exposed to the sport and its values of discipline, respect, and self-defense.