KCB chess team gear up for Mavens Open 2026 battle

The four-day tournament has attracted players from across the East African region, with teams, individuals, and schools competing in the open, ladies, and special category prizes.

Speaking ahead of the competition, KCB Woman FIDE Master Joyce Nyaruai expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness.

“This tournament presents a great opportunity to sharpen our competitive edge. We will be up against some of the region’s strongest players, and while the challenge is significant, we are ready to give it our very best. I am always inspired by the passion and determination players bring to every game.”

Nyaruai comes into the tournament in top form, having won all six of her matches to clinch the women’s title at the Eldoret Open Chess Tournament earlier this year.

KCB was also crowned Best Corporate Club with 36 points, a performance they will be keen to replicate in this weekend’s competition.

In a move to further motivate local talent, special bounties have been introduced for Kenyan players.

A reward of Ksh 5,000 will be awarded for every win against a Grandmaster, while victories against International Masters will earn Ksh 3,000. This initiative is expected to boost competitiveness and inspire standout performances.

“There are titles to defend and prizes to be won, but our focus is on delivering a dominant performance. KCB is a strong club with exceptional talent, and I have full confidence in the team’s ability to deliver.

“As much as the competition will be tough as Grandmasters and International Masters will be flown across the country, we are expecting to win the corporate title,” said KCB coach Benjamin Magana.

KCB’s chess patron also acknowledged the level of competition expected “We anticipate a challenging tournament against top opponents from across the region. However, we have prepared well and remain confident in our players. We believe they are ready to rise to the occasion.”