The atmosphere at the Pride Inn Hotel in Mombasa was nothing short of electric as cheers, laughter, and quiet intensity filled the air during the 2025 African Individual Schools Chess Championship. After a week of gripping battles across the board, a new generation of African chess champions was crowned, with players from 11 countries showing skill, heart, and unshakable focus.
It was more than just a chess tournament. It was a celebration of youth, talent, and the shared dreams of over 1,100 young minds, some stepping onto the international stage for the very first time. From record-breaking performances to long-awaited triumphs, the event delivered stories that will be remembered for years.
A Long Wait Ends for Namibia
For Namibia, the tournament brought tears of joy as Frederick Cronje broke a six-year medal drought, capturing gold in the Under-9 Open category with a remarkable 8 out of 9 points. His calm demeanor and sharp tactical play made him one of the most talked-about players of the event a hero for his country and an inspiration for young chess lovers back home.
Naomi Delivers for the Host Nation
In the Under-9 Girls section, the host nation had its own star. Naomi Wamwenje, a clear crowd favorite, lived up to expectations. With quiet determination and an infectious smile, she edged out Zambia’s Janelle Mutale to take gold with 8 points just half a point ahead. The final round saw spectators on the edge of their seats, as both girls played with passion beyond their years.
East Africa Holds the Fort
The Under-11 category was dominated by East Africa, especially Kenya and Uganda. Local boys Mumo Faraja Muli and Nathaniel Manyeki both finished on 8 points in the Open section, with Muli clinching the title on tiebreaks. Uganda’s Ronald Wabwire wasn’t far behind, earning bronze and showcasing Uganda’s growing depth in youth chess.
In the Girls’ Under-11, it was a clean sweep for Kenya. Miriam Paraan, Amanda Breetalizah, and Matingi Riley all finished tied at 7½ points, sharing the podium and sharing the moment like sisters-in-arms. Their camaraderie off the board was just as impressive as their composure on it.
Dreams Take Flight
There were many firsts in Mombasa, but few were as magical as Juliet Asaba’s. Competing in her first-ever international tournament, the 13-year-old Ugandan stunned her more experienced rivals to win gold in the Girls’ Under-13 category with 8 points. Her emotional embrace with her coach after the final round said it all this was a dream come true.
Kenya’s Jadon Simiyu kept the home crowd celebrating, taking the Under-13 Open title with 8½ points. His cool-headed play and maturity belied his age, and many are already tipping him as one to watch in future African youth circuits.
Surprises, Perfection, and Pure Passion
In the Under-15 Open, Kyle Kuka led a strong East African charge, picking up gold with determination and flair. But perhaps the biggest surprise came in the Girls’ Under-15, where Zuri Kaloki stunned the field to clinch gold. Unseeded and under the radar, Kaloki’s triumph was the kind of underdog story that makes chess so compelling.
And then there was Jorah Soojay of South Africa. Calm, precise, and completely unstoppable he delivered a perfect 9/9 record in the Under-17 Open. The only unbeaten player of the tournament, Soojay’s performance was a quiet masterclass, met with respect and admiration across the board.
In the Under-17 Girls section, Kenya put on yet another show of strength, dominating the top five places. It was a loud message to the continent: Kenyan youth chess is here to stay.
2025 African Individual School Chess Championship
