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Young chess stars shine as Kenya eyes international glory
07th April, 2026 05:05 PM
The 2026 National Youth and Cadet Chess Championship has once again showcased Kenya’s growing depth in the sport, with thousands of young players battling for top honours and a chance to represent the country on the global stage.
National team selection
A total of 36 players are set to be selected to join the national chess team, which will represent Kenya in various international competitions later in 2026. The selection comes after an intense and highly competitive championship that drew participation from over 8,000 players across the country.
The tournament, held at Mang’u High School in Kiambu County, brought together some of the brightest young minds in Kenyan chess. After several rounds of competition, only the most consistent performers advanced, with 200 players qualifying for the upcoming national play-offs.
According to the tournament structure, only the top 11 players in each category who managed to score seven points or more earned automatic qualification to the play-offs, highlighting the high level of competition witnessed throughout the event.
In the girls’ categories, familiar names continued to dominate. Four-time national champion Zuri Kaloki once again stamped her authority in the Under-16 division, reaffirming her status as one of the country’s most promising young talents. Her consistency and tactical brilliance have made her a standout figure in youth chess.
Meanwhile, Angel Kagambi of Buruburu Girls School emerged victorious in the Under-18 category, showcasing remarkable composure and skill against a strong field of competitors. Her triumph signals the rise of a new generation of players ready to take Kenyan chess to greater heights.
Speaking after the event, Chess Kenya President Benard Wanjala lauded the high turnout and competitive spirit displayed by the participants, noting that the championship continues to serve as a critical platform for nurturing talent and identifying players capable of excelling internationally.
Competing for a coveted spot
With the play-offs now on the horizon, attention shifts to the final phase of selection, where the best of the best will compete for a coveted spot on the national team. For many of these young players, the dream of flying the Kenyan flag on the international stage is now within reach.
The championship not only highlights the rapid growth of chess in Kenya but also reinforces its role in shaping young minds, fostering discipline, and creating opportunities for global exposure.
