World Taekwondo Peace Federation And Options Sports Academy Sign MoU To Spread Taekwondo in CEMAC Region
By Basil K. Mbuye
In a significant move aimed at fostering the growth of Taekwondo and promoting a culture of peace in Central Africa, the World Taekwondo Peace Federation (WTPF) based in Korea, has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Options Sports Academy, a prominent institution in Cameroon. This agreement, formalized during a ceremony held in Seoul on January 23, 2025, highlights a mutual commitment to expanding the reach of Taekwondo across Cameroon and the wider Central African Economic and Monetary Community, CEMAC, region.
The signing ceremony was graced by key figures from the WTPF, including President Song Jin-ho, Chairman Kim Deok-geun, and Honorary President Kim Nan-jae. Joining them from the Cameroonian side were several notable attendees, such as Jeff Anotzi, CEO of Global Biz Corporation and Cameroon Honorary Consul, Awantoh Henry Neba, CEO of Options Sports and Options for Homes Real Estate, and Reverend Pastor Daniel Modex Mokwe, Chairman of Options Sports Academy and Options for Homes Real Estate. Their presence underscored the significance of this partnership.
The central objective of the MOU is to create a robust cooperative framework that will facilitate the promotion of Taekwondo as not only a martial art but also as a transformative tool for personal and community development. The agreement encompasses a range of activities, including support for Taekwondo exchanges between communities, volunteer initiatives focusing on youth engagement, and the development of comprehensive educational programs aimed at nurturing skills and discipline among participants.
Following the signing, President Song Jin-ho of the WTPF expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Our federation is dedicated to promoting the spirit of sports globally through Taekwondo, which is a cherished national sport of the Republic of Korea. We aspire to contribute to global peace through various volunteer activities. I firmly believe that this partnership will pave the way for spreading Taekwondo throughout Africa and instil dreams and courage in its people.”
Awantoh Henry Neba, the CEO of Options Sports Academy, echoed this sentiment, asserting his confidence in the potential impact of the partnership. He remarked, “I am convinced that this agreement will catalyze the widespread adoption of Taekwondo in Cameroon and the CEMAC region. This initiative represents not only a unique opportunity for sporting growth but also for fostering hope and new possibilities within our communities. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Song Jin-ho and all the officials involved in making this collaboration a reality.”
Through this strategic partnership, both organizations aspire to harness the values embedded in Taekwondo—such as respect, integrity, and perseverance—to foster a better understanding of peace and cooperation within the region. They aim to inspire a new generation of Taekwondo practitioners who will contribute positively to their societies.