NAIROBI, KENYA – The inaugural World Taekwondo Under-21 Championships 2025 in Nairobi has provided a crucial international platform for emerging African talent. For Uganda’s team, it was a baptism by fire, focused on gaining experience.
Speaking to Rora Media from the sidelines at the Moi International Indoor Arena, Kasarani, Ongen Rwot Johnathan, the team’s captain, offered an honest and optimistic assessment of their experience.
Representing Uganda in the U21 category, Johnathan confirmed the tournament was “going well,” despite the intense level of competition. For many on the Ugandan squad, the Nairobi event was their first exposure to international-level Taekwondo, a factor that presented a significant challenge.
“We participated, we competed,” Johnathan stated. “It was challenging because, like, most of us, it was our first time playing at such an international event.”
This world championship, which ran from December 3–6, 2025, brought together 682 registered participants from 75 countries.
Competing against seasoned international athletes, the Ugandan team gained invaluable insight into the speed and technique required at the elite level.
Dominance and Performance.
The championship was dominated by the traditional powerhouse nations: Iran (4 gold), Turkiye (3 gold), and South Korea (2 gold).
African nations also secured top spots, with Morocco and Egypt each earning a gold medal.
Despite the hurdles faced by a relatively inexperienced squad, Johnathan framed the journey as a powerful learning experience.
“But it was an experience, a good experience for us,” he affirmed. He believes the team is now better equipped for the future championshis. “I know with time, if we get exposed to more tournaments, we can make it.”
Uganda’s best performers were Aron Oloya and Omara Steven. Oloya, though showing potential, was eliminated in the Round of 32 of his weight category.
Jonathan’s reflection captures the true spirit of the U21 championship, which is designed to serve as an important bridge between the junior and senior levels of the sport.
For the Ugandan Taekwondo team, their time in Nairobi has been a vital step towards global competitiveness, providing the necessary exposure to motivate and shape their development in the years to come.
