The serene shores of Lake Victoria have become a chess battleground as Kisumu Governor, H.E. Prof.
Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, officially launched the Victoria East Africa U21 Chess Tournament on Sunday. This premier chess event, taking place at the luxurious Sarova Imperial Hotel in Kisumu, brings together some of the most promising young talents from across East Africa and beyond. The tournament’s launch was celebrated alongside the commencement of the Festival of Arts and Culture (Festac Africa), making it a week of cultural and intellectual enrichment in the region.
In his opening remarks, Governor Nyong’o warmly welcomed participants, officials, and chess enthusiasts to Kisumu, emphasizing the importance of the event to the local community and the broader East African region. “We are gathered here this Sunday morning to witness the start of this premier sporting event – the East African Under 21 Chess Competition,” said Nyong’o. He highlighted the significance of hosting such a prestigious tournament, which coincides with one of the biggest cultural events in Africa, Festac Africa.
Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong'o (center) duirng the Victoria East Africa U21 Chess Tournament launch. [Washington Onyango,Standard] The Victoria East Africa U21 Chess Tournament, hosted by the Victoria Chess Club, has attracted a diverse group of young chess prodigies not only from East Africa but also from countries such as Canada, the USA, Britain, and Uganda. Governor Nyong’o ex.