Wanjala says chess sport key in unlocking brain power

The recent Championships held at Mang'u High School showcased remarkable talent and determination among the young players.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Chess Kenya President Bernard Wanjala said chess was one of the most powerful brain-building activities someone could be participating in.

“We have been receiving a lot of support from the ministry and you can see we even have representatives here in the closing ceremony and I hope that after selecting the national champions, they will be supported by the ministry to go for the Africa Youth Championships,” said Wanjala.

The winners promised to hone their skills and strive for improvement to reflect a culture of continuous learning and growth within the chess community.

The commitment of the players to elevate their game further signifies their determination to excel and make a mark in the competitive world of chess.

“The tournament was tough, it was actually tough, especially the last two rounds and I hope we get better tournament after the other,” Jimmy Kanangu, the under 16 champion told Citizen Digital.

Yvonne Washe challenged the Chess Kenya federation to increase the number of players who should qualify for the playoffs to give room for more youth.

Nelson Sifuna, the chief guest at the finals, acknowledged the improvement of the chess game at the grassroots level, reflecting the concerted efforts made by various stakeholders to promote the game among youth across the country.

“Initially, Chess was only for a few selected elites but from the time Chess Kenya went mashinani, now even a player from a rural village can win several rounds,” he noted.

Other winners were Muiruri Don Kamami and Kuka Riziki who all swept a 100% win in under 12 categories and Manyeki Nathaniel and his sister Kaburo Winnie in under 10 categories.

The playoffs will be held on April 17 at the same venue ahead of the Africa Youth Championships in July that will be held in South Africa.