The 2024 Ghana National Chess Championship Finals, a 10-player round-robin tournament, took place from January 2 to 5, 2025, at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons in Accra. The top five highest-rated national players from the FIDE rating list were joined by the top five finishers from the first phase (Qualifiers), held from December 27 to 29, 2024.

Sixth-seed 14-year-old Philip Selikem Amoako delivered an outstanding performance, completing the competition unbeaten with an impressive score of 7.5/9. The untitled teenager outperformed seasoned competitors, including International Master (IM) Francis Anquandah and Candidate Master (CM) Bernard Anhwere and became the youngest chess champion in Gana’s chess history. His victory highlights the growing prominence of youth in Ghana's chess scene.

Amoako's triumph marks a historic milestone in Ghana's chess history. He first gained national attention in 2021 when, at age 11, he secured a silver medal in the Under-12 Open Category at the African Youth Chess Championships, earning the conditional Candidate Master title and becoming the youngest Ghanaian to achieve the distinction at the time.

Final standings

Ghana Chess Association (GCA) President Philip Ameku praised Amoako’s achievement, stating, "Selikem's achievement is a testament to the potential of young chess players in Ghana. His dedication and success serve as an inspiration to aspiring players nationwide."

The young champion expressed gratitude for the support from his family, coaches, and the chess community. "Winning the national championship is a dream come true. I hope my success encourages more young people to take up chess and pursue their passions," he said.

The Ghana Chess Association remains committed to nurturing young talent, aiming to elevate the country's standing in international chess circles. Selikem's historic win is a promising indicator of Ghana's potential on the global stage.

Text and photos: Maxwell Kwasi Kporxah