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More than 100 judokas from across the country converged at the KMTC Kitui County over the weekend to compete in the Kenya Judo Federation (KJF) National League trials, marking a significant step in the sport’s expansion.
It is only the second time the national trials have been conducted outside of Nairobi, as the Kenya Judo Federation ramps up efforts to scout and develop talent from the grassroots.
The tournament brought together competitors with varied ability levels, all competing for a berth on the national squad.
During the event, KJF Deputy President Duncan Chemirio underlined the federation’s dedication to inclusive and merit-based selection.
“Taking the leagues to the grassroots is not just about widening our reach but about ensuring fairness in team selection and giving every talented athlete a chance,” said Chemirio.
The event is part of a larger goal to establish a strong national squad ahead of international qualifications, with a focus on the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games in the United States.
“Our long-term goal is clear: we want to have a strong, competitive team representing Kenya at the Olympics in 2028. These leagues are the foundation,” Chemirio added.
The successful hosting of the event in Kitui underscores a growing interest in judo across Kenya and reflects a shift toward decentralizing talent development in Kenyan sports.
