The South Sudan Taekwondo Federation (SSTF) is preparing to participate in first African Para-Taekwondo Championships in Egypt on 22 May.

Taekwondo is a Korean martial arts sport with a heavy emphasis on kicks. The sport has an ethic emphasizing the five tenets of courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.

Ruben Okeny Nichola, the secretary-general of the national taekwondo federation, says that there are a number of taekwondo centers in Juba including in Rock City, Referendum area, a youth center in Hai Neem, and Kator. Ruben said that at least 20 South Sudanese will take part in the tournament.

Four men and women are expected to take part in in the sparring contest and four men four women in poomsae, which is an event showcasing defined patterns of defense and attack motions.

In remarks to taekwondo students, Coach Sebit Kujur called on them to work hard and show their sportsmanship because taekwondo is a game for the development of ethics, stressing that they must not miss their exercise, whatever the reasons.

Ruben also stressed that SSTF will seek to support the taekwondo practitioners with clothing and necessary equipment, and he encouraged girls to come to the centers and practice taekwondo.

Ruben said South Sudan will also take part in 1st WTF World Beach Taekwondo Championships in South Korea in May 2016, and the world Taekwondo Federation will approve the participation of four South Sudanese practitioners in the Olympic Games in Brazil in August 2016, after recommendation of the African Taekwondo Union (AFTU).

South Sudan's Taekwondo federation has been supported in part by South Sudan's Korean community and the South Korean army, which has a detachment of peacekeepers based in the country. 

Related coverage: 

South Sudan's Taekwondo team still in Juba due to dollar shortage (9 Sept. 2015)

South Sudan's Taekwondo team to participate in All-Africa games (3 Sept. 2015)