CBC key to karate growth in Kenya, says KFF boss Binga

Newly-elected Kenya Karate Federation (KKF) chairperson Eng. Richard Binga says they plan to partner with the Ministry of Education to incorporate the sport into the country’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

Binga’s bold vision seeks to beef up the game’s visibility through enhanced participation in schools, aligning the sport with the country's broader education reforms.

Binga expressed the KKF's intention to work closely with the Ministry of Education to ensure karate finds

“We believe that incorporating karate into the CBC will help grow the sport and instill discipline, physical fitness, and self-defense skills among students.

“We should also remember that you get better players when we start preparing them at early ages,” he said.

According to Binga, the federation aims to present a formal proposal to the ministry in the coming months, detailing how karate can be included as a physical education option or extracurricular activity in primary and secondary schools.

The CBC, which was launched in 2017, focuses on equipping students with practical skills, making karate an ideal fit, according to Binga.

"The values taught in karate, such as respect, perseverance, and mental fortitude, align well with the CBC's objectives of nurturing well-rounded individuals," he added.

Binga has also pointed to the need for better funding mechanisms to support athletes and clubs, including securing long-term financial backing from sponsors, local businesses, and government bodies.

By doing so, he says, Karate Kenya will reduce the financial burden on athletes, who face challenges in affording training, gear, and participation in competitions.

The focus on sustainability also includes training more coaches and referees to expand the capacity for professional growth within the sport, ensuring that there's enough expertise to guide new athletes.