Hundreds of youth take part in inaugural bi-monthly Chess tournament

KICC CEO James Mwaura (left) awards one of the chess tournament winners. Looking on is Mureithi Hinga.[Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

The inaugural Kenyatta International Convention Center (KICC) Bi-Monthly Chess Tournament held at the weekend attracted dozens of players who battled for glory in Nairobi.

The tournament, launched in conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism, is part of the National Youth Empowerment Programme designed to engage young people in constructive, intellectually stimulating activities that nurture creativity and problem-solving skills.

The tournament is meant to create a regular platform for the youth to interact, learn, and compete in a mentally engaging environment.

The first edition held on Saturday attracted dozens of young participants eager to sharpen their strategic thinking skills.

The launch comes on the heels of another milestone event held earlier this month, the National AI Hackathon, which was unveiled by the Ministry to identify AI powered solutions for tourism, conservation, and the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. 

Both initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to harnessing innovation and technology as tools for youth empowerment and sustainable development. 

“These programmes align with Kenya’s broader Digital Transformation and Climate Resilience Agenda, which positions Artificial Intelligence and creative technologies at the core of national development,” KICC Chief Executive Officer James Mwaura said.

The introduction of chess tournaments also forms part of KICC’s wider strategic goal to reposition the Centre as a dynamic and versatile venue, capable of hosting diverse, contemporary events that go beyond traditional MICE offerings.

Speaking during the launch, Mwaura affirmed the Centre’s vision stating: “We are proud to be part of a transformative journey that will shape the future of Kenya’s youth. Through platforms like these, we are not only building intellectual capacity but also reaffirming the Centre as a hub for innovation, creativity, and national development.” The bi-monthly chess series will be open to both the young and the youth with additional mentorship, training, and prizes provided in partnership with key stakeholders