By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Kenya has etched its name into the history books after a remarkable performance at the 2025 Africa Youth Chess Championship held in Harare, Zimbabwe, emerging as the overall top nation among 16 participating countries.
The Kenyan team claimed an unprecedented 10 medals with four gold, two silver, and four bronze, marking the first time since the championship’s formation in 1976 that Kenya has dominated the continental youth chess event so decisively.
The historic medal haul was headlined by four outstanding gold-medal performances. Cyprian Mbaabu triumphed in the Under-16 Open, WCM Elizabeth Cassidy Maina captured gold in the Under-14 Girls, Nathaniel Manyeki topped the Under-10 Open, while Breetalizah Amanda delivered another gold for Kenya in the Under-10 Girls category.
Their victories showcased exceptional tactical skill, composure and consistency against Africa’s strongest young chess talents.
Kenya’s impressive showing was further strengthened by two silver medals, won by Davidson Waweru Mugo in the Under-14 Open and Winnie Kaburo in the Under-12 Girls, both narrowly missing out on gold after highly competitive rounds.
The team’s depth was evident in the four bronze medals earned by Gene Pence Mukwana in the Under-8 Open, Jayne Awuor in the Under-8 Girls, Danson Ryan Kimani in the Under-12 Open, and Fantalis Lucy Nduta in the Under-14 Girls category.
The outstanding results were credited to a two-week intensive residential training programme undertaken before the championship. The training was led by Head Coach Dr. Victor Ng’ani, assisted by Coach Tom Amwai, whose technical preparation, game analysis and psychological conditioning played a vital role in readying the players for high-level competition.
Their leadership instilled discipline, confidence and a winning mentality that was evident throughout the tournament.
Chess Kenya expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, led by Cabinet Secretary Mvurya, Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, and the Department of Sports under Director Indakwa Jackson, for their continued support in nurturing young talent and facilitating Kenya’s participation at the continental level.
The support provided was instrumental in enabling the players to represent the country with distinction.
Beyond topping the medal standings, Kenya’s success in Harare signals a significant milestone in the country’s youth chess development. The performance reflects the impact of structured training, early talent identification and strong institutional backing. As the young champions return home with continental honors, their achievement is expected to inspire future generations and strengthen Kenya’s position as a rising powerhouse in African chess.
