The 2024 Jumuiya Ya Afrika Mashariki Open Chess Tournament recently concluded at the M-PESA Foundation Academy, Kenya. This FIDE-rated tournament brought together over 440 chess enthusiasts from across Eastern Africa for a weekend of intense competition, camaraderie, and celebration of the game’s unifying power.
The tournament featured three categories: U1400 & Under 12, U1700, and the Elite Section. Each category showcased a vibrant mix of young prodigies and seasoned veterans, all vying for glory on the 64 squares.
Players in the U1400 & Under 12, and U1700 categories faced off in six rounds of 60-minute games, while those in the Elite Section battled through 90-minute classical time control games.
Thom Ngong from South Sudan claimed the top spot, in the Elite Section, with his compatriot Mach Chol securing second place. FM Sergejs Klimakovs from Latvia was third.
Chitundu Limbikani (left) versus M Sergejs Klimakovs of Latvia
Achuoth Deng from Kakuma Refugee Chess Club emerged as the winner in the U1700 Section, followed by Bradly Wathimba from Makini School in second place. Ader Ajak, also representing Kakuma Refugee Chess, was third.
Adrian Kariuki of Membly Titans took first place in the U1400 & Under 12 category. Shem Apamo and Nigel Njoroge, from Mavens Chess Club, came in second and third place, respectively.
The event’s biggest highlight was a remarkable performance by the Kakuma Refugee Chess Team, competing under the banner ‘Chess for Protection.’ Their resilience and talent were on full display as they won the prestigious Best Club/School Award.
Participants competed not only for the glory of victory but also for a range of coveted prizes. These included substantial cash awards, a one-year license to an exclusive chess database, and gleaming trophies and medals.
The Gift of Chess organized the event with the unwavering support of key partners: FIDE, Chess Kenya, Opening Master, Afribot, Snapic Production, Confucius Institute, idChess, and Opic. Their invaluable support made this event a resounding success, and we are grateful for their contribution to the chess community.
Phylis Mbaire Ngigi was the Tournament Director, with FA Karanja Amos as the Chief Arbiter and FA Kyalo Cynthia Wayua as his deputy, officiating the competition.
Text and photos: Kenya Chess Masala
