The future of Malawian chess was on full display as young talents from across the country converged at Bishop Mackenzie International School in Lilongwe for the 2025 National Youth Chess Championship (NYCC), held from 30–31 August.
Organized by the Chess Association of Malawi (CHESSAM) with support from Alliance One and Pyxus Malawi, the championship was a celebration of youth, intellect, and sporting spirit. Participants battled it out across six age categories—U18, U16, U14, U12, U10, and U8—competing in both open and girls’ sections.
The stakes were high. Beyond trophies, medals, bicycles, and shopping vouchers, winners also earned the prestigious title of National Youth Champion. Most importantly, champions in the Under-18 Open and Girls’ sections booked automatic slots at the 2025 National Chess Championship, the gateway to the national team for the 2026 FIDE World Chess Olympiad.
Rising Stars Make Their Mark
The event produced thrilling performances and memorable triumphs.
In the Under-18 Open, Liwonde Leephos reigned supreme with 7½ points, edging out Manda Luke (7 pts) and Ahmed Aryan (6 pts). In the Girls’ section, it was a close contest between Chifundo Chimthere and Shalom Chalira, who tied on 5½ points, with Chimthere taking gold on tiebreaks. Lexa Shaba rounded off the podium.
The Under-16 Girls category was dominated by WCM Rachael Jayloss, who powered through with 8 points, while Ezri Paul and Chigolo Fortune tied at the top in the Under-16 Open, both scoring 8 points.
The Under-14 category saw flawless performances: Phiri Beston in the Open and Robert Clara in the Girls’ section both clinched gold with perfect 9/9 scores. Equally impressive was Chalamwendo Glory, who swept the Under-12 Girls category with a 100% win rate.
The youngest age groups brought excitement and fresh promise. Namangale Alipo stormed to victory in the Under-10 Open with another perfect score, while Chimeta Lucy edged a tough field in the Girls’ category with 8½ points. In the Under-8 sections, victories went to Mizuki Hoshino (Open) and Kambalame Mayamiko (Girls).
Building the Future of Chess
Speaking during the closing ceremony, CHESSAM Vice President Francis Kudzula reiterated the association’s vision of transforming Malawi into a chess-playing nation.
“Youth-focused activities such as the NYCC form the foundation for nurturing future champions,” he said, thanking sponsors Alliance One and Pyxus Malawi for their support, and Bishop Mackenzie International School for hosting the prestigious event.
Representing the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mr. MacMillan Mwale praised the championship’s organization and urged players to balance sport with academics.
“Work hard both in school and in sport, because the two must go hand in hand,” he advised the young competitors.
A Generation to Watch
With flawless performances, nail-biting finishes, and new champions crowned, the 2025 National Youth Chess Championship cemented itself as a breeding ground for future stars of Malawian chess. For the winners, the journey continues toward the National Championship and, ultimately, a shot at representing Malawi on the global stage.
