This surely is a true first for Kenya.
A Kenyan chess player has published a book. The most amazing thing is that Gilliane Otieno is only 9 years old and has put her name in the history books of Kenyan chess.
Gilliance Otieno has represented Kenya a number of times in international events. Her dad is Gilbert Wandera who is a journalist.
I am not sure how many of you will notice that something is wrong with the cover. The board is set up incorrectly. Of course it took our own Chess Hero – Saif Kanani to spot it. Those who do not know who Saif Kanani is well he remains the only Kenyans to win a medal at the Chess Olympiad. He won a Silver medal at the 1982 Olympiad in Malta.
![]() |
Saif Kanani (in blue jacket) in action at an Olympiad event. Photos thanks to Aslam Adam (on Saif’s right) of UK |