Sports Fund asked to back Kenyan karateka Musoga for Japan International Cup

In a sponsorship request addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of the Sports Fund Kenya, HDKI Kenya Secretary James Maina Kang’ong’a said Musoga has officially been invited to compete at the prestigious tournament scheduled for September 9 to 20, 2026.

Musoga earned the international invitation following an outstanding performance at the HDKI International Tournament in Ireland in 2024, where he emerged champion in his category.

“I am a Shotokan Karate coach and athlete. I am appealing to the Ministry of Sports, well-wishers, and Kenyans in general to support our team of six players to travel to represent the country at the HDKI International Cup 2026 in Gotemba, Japan, this September.

"Two Kenyans participated in the tournament in 2024, and their results paved the way for the team size to be increased. Now, I call upon Kenyans to come together and help make this dream a reality,” said Musoga.

Musoga who currently serves as the HDKI Representative in Kenya, says his participation in Japan presents an opportunity for Kenya to showcase its karate talent on the international stage while promoting values of discipline, excellence, integrity and sportsmanship.

According to HDKI Kenya, Musoga will also use the opportunity to promote Kenya’s image internationally by highlighting the country’s potential in tourism, investment and sporting excellence.

Musoga has therefore asked the Sports Fund to assist with key expenses, including return airfare, tournament registration, accommodation, meals, local transport, travel insurance, sports equipment, training support, visa and other travel-related costs.

HDKI Kenya says the financial support would go beyond helping one athlete, arguing that Musoga’s participation would contribute to Kenya’s international sporting profile and inspire young Kenyans to pursue excellence through karate.

The sponsorship request has been supported by official documents, including the HDKI invitation letter, tournament itinerary, budget breakdown, registration details and other confirmation documents relating to Musoga’s participation.

With the Japan competition offering Musoga an opportunity to test himself against some of the world’s best karate practitioners, HDKI Kenya believes government support could help the Kenyan athlete fly the national flag high on one of the sport’s biggest international stages.