Fourteen-year-old FIDE Master Jadon Simiyu and Woman Candidate Master Jully Mutisya emerged as the standout performers at the 2025 National Chess Championship, clinching the Open and Ladies titles respectively and driving away with brand-new Nissan Note vehicles.
Their victories capped a dominant showing by Equity Chess Club, which claimed four of the six podium positions across both categories, underlining its growing influence on Kenya’s competitive chess scene.
The invite-only championship featured an 11-round Swiss-format tournament, bringing together the country’s top-ranked players who qualified through the rigorous Chess Kenya Grand Prix series.
Open Category
Simiyu topped the Open section with 8 points, outpacing a field that included several former national champions. His campaign was marked by tactical accuracy and composure beyond his age.
“This title means a lot to me. I’ve worked for it move by move,” said Simiyu. “I hope my journey encourages young players to believe that discipline and consistency can take them to the top.”
Equity teammate FIDE Master Kuka Kyle finished second on 7.5 points, completing a 1–2 finish for the club. Kyle recorded notable wins against experienced opponents, including former national champion Ken Omollo. Candidate Master Robert Mcligeyo of KCB Chess Club placed third.
Ladies Category
In the Ladies section, Jully Mutisya claimed the title on tie-breaks after finishing level on 8 points with fellow Equity player Woman FIDE Master Sasha Mongeli. Mutisya’s run was characterised by strong positional play and effective endgame execution.
“I had to stay mentally strong and convert small advantages,” Mutisya said. “I want women and girls to know they belong at the top tables.”
Nicole Albright of Mavens Chess Club finished third
Equity’s Dominance
Equity Chess Club’s sweep of the top two positions in both categories marked a historic achievement. Coach Moses Andiwoh attributed the success to consistency and exposure to international competition.
“Our players showed clarity and confidence throughout the tournament. This is the standard required to succeed locally and internationally,” he said.
Pathway to International Representation
Beyond prize money and cars, the championship served as Kenya’s official selection event for the World Chess Olympiad. The top five finishers in both categories earned the right to represent the country.
Chess Kenya President Bernard Wanjala praised the emerging generation:
“The level of play we witnessed reflects the future of Kenyan chess. Our investment in youth development is clearly bearing fruit.”
Chief Arbiter Anthony Kionga described the tournament as one of the most competitive in recent years, noting the prominence of Gen Z and Gen Alpha players among the winners.
For many observers, the 2025 National Chess Championship signalled a generational shift—one led by disciplined young players and reinforced by structured institutional support—pointing to a strong future for Kenyan chess on the continental and global stage.