The 2025 Kitale Open Chess Championship concluded on Sunday, drawing players from across East Africa and positioning Trans Nzoia County as an emerging hub for indoor sports in Kenya.

The event, held in Kitale town, attracted participants from academic institutions and corporate teams, with hundreds of players competing over the three-day tournament. The closing ceremony was officiated by Trans Nzoia County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Education and Vocational Training, Janerose Nasimiyu Mutama.

“Chess is no longer just a pastime. It’s a gateway to opportunity,” Mutama said during her keynote address, adding that the county government, under Governor George Natembeya, is committed to supporting non-traditional sports.

“We are diversifying our investment in youth talent to include mind sports, which are critical in developing strategic thinking and discipline.”

While Kenya has long prioritized outdoor sports like football and athletics, the CEC said tournaments such as the Kitale Open represent a shift toward a more inclusive sporting culture.

“This championship shows that our young people are interested and talented in areas beyond the pitch or track. It’s time to give them a platform,” Mutama said.

Organizers said this year’s tournament marked a record turnout, with teams traveling from Uganda, Tanzania, and various Kenyan counties. Winners in different categories were awarded trophies and monetary wards while top performers were scouted for upcoming regional tournaments.

Chess Kenya official Martin Otieno described the event as a “milestone moment” for the sport in the region.

“We’ve never seen this level of regional engagement for a chess event in western Kenya. It’s inspiring,” he said.

Stakeholders are now calling for stronger institutional support to sustain the tournament’s momentum. Mutama urged collaboration among county governments, private sponsors, and educational institutions.

“We need strong partnerships to grow these tournaments into nationally recognized events,” she said.

As the chessboards were packed away and trophies handed out, many players and spectators said they hoped the Kitale Open would return in 2026 with an even broader scope.

“This is how champions are born,” said Sandra Achieng, a university student and participant. “Not all of us run or kick balls some of us think eight moves ahead.”