Gong Thon Gong wins 2025 Kisumu Open

Gong Thon Gong, a name that continues to resonate in the Kenyan chess community, added another feather to his cap by clinching the 2025 Kisumu Open. His flawless performance, scoring 5.5 points out of six rounds, is a testament to his unwavering skill and determination.

His achievements follow his victory in the Mavens Open Chess Tournament and the Waridi Chess Festival held in March 2025, which confirmed him as the Alpha player in the region. He beat a field of 68 players and took home a cash prize of KES 30,000 (USD 220).

Jeff Onyango (left) the Tournament Director presents Gong Thon Gong with his trophy. Gong Thon Gong, — Jeff Onyango (left) the Tournament Director presents Gong Thon Gong with his trophy.

On the other hand, Martin Njoroge, the 2021 Kenya National Champion, crushed FM Haruna Nsubuga in a thrilling round one encounter to finish with four points and 8th in the ranking.

Madelta Glenda returned to her winning ways, clinching the Ladies’ title with 5.5 points out of six rounds and winning KES 20,000. WFM Sasha Mongeli was second with 5 points and earned KES 10,000 for her efforts.

The Ladies’ Section was a battleground of skill and strategy, with 20 fierce competitors vying for the total KES 30,000 cash prizes.

Equity Bank was the winner of the Corporate Section with 26.5 points.

The Junior Section, a vibrant part of most Kenya events, had 62 participants who were competing in various age categories.

The event at the was held on 22nd & 23rd March at the Grace Ogot Hall in the lakeside city of Kisumu.