2025 World Cadets Chess Championship
The 2025 World Cadets Chess Championship, held from the 19th to 30th September 2025 in Almaty, Kazakhstan, was a resounding success with over 840 participants from 175 federations.
Africa was represented by Kenya, alongside Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Zambia.
Team Kenya comprised six champions from the National Cadets Championship and two additional players granted special sponsorships due to extraordinary circumstances.
National Cadet Champions (Fully Sponsored)
Muthoni Baraka Jackson – Under 8 Boys Champion.
Otieno Jayne Awuor – Under 8 Girls Champion.
Ndarwa Jayson Kimani – Under 10 Boys Champion.
Odiwuor Breetalliza Amandah – Under 10 Girls Champion.
Kimani Ryan Danson – Under 12 Boys Champion.
Muchoki Winnie Kaburo – Under 12 Girls Champion
Special Sponsorship Cases
Timothy Elvis Karugo – U7 Open Champion (Pine Crest Academy). He missed his previous international opportunity due to passport delays and was granted a special slot as recognition of his national title and perseverance.
Miriam Paaran Lumoni – Africa Schools U11 Girls Champion. Despite having no access to certified coaching, limited exposure outside Bungoma, and no prior national or international experience, Miriam defied all odds to become a continental champion. Her inspiring journey has earned her a special sponsorship from Chess Kenya.
The Head of Delegation was Rodah Olisa.
The players found the event extremely challenging but gained valuable experience in Almaty.
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Article by Kenya Chess Masala.
