Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to investing in youth talent after hosting members of the Kiambu County Chess Association Under‑18 team, who recently excelled at regional championships in Kampala, Uganda.
The junior players, representing various schools throughout Kiambu County, returned home with a haul of medals after competing against the top participants from several countries.
Governor Wamatangi congratulated the students, calling their achievement a major milestone for Kiambu and proving that the county’s youth can thrive on the international stage.
‘The successes of these young players fill us with pride as a county. Their dedication and discipline showcase the vast potential among our youth,’ he said.
Wamatangi speaking during the event
He stressed chess’s value as a catalyst for intellectual growth, noting that the game sharpens critical thinking, strategic planning, and problem‑solving skills in learners.
Osman Korar, County Executive Committee Member for Youth Affairs, Sports and Communication, praised the governor’s ongoing support for sports development, highlighting the county’s expansion beyond traditional disciplines.
According to Korar, the county has already underpinned football, boxing, basketball, and other sports, and is now preparing to strengthen chess programs through coaching, equipment, and structured training.
He added that talks are underway to create a network of trainers who will nurture young talent across the county and elevate the sport at the grassroots level.
County Assembly members present at the ceremony also lauded the young champions and urged the government to allocate more resources to chess, including funding for competitions, training, and equipment.
In his speech, Governor Wamatangi challenged the notion that only mainstream sports merit support, asserting that intellectual games can offer youths opportunities and international acclaim.
He explained that chess offers a constructive outlet for youth engagement by boosting concentration, discipline, and decision‑making abilities.
‘When young people engage in mind‑games such as chess, they develop valuable life skills that prepare them for leadership and future success,’ he added.
The governor also revealed plans to roll out chess programs in early childhood development centers across the county.
He outlined a model in which chess instructors would directly engage learners while teachers receive specialized training to facilitate the program.
The governor assured that the county would collaborate closely with chess associations and stakeholders to establish long‑term support mechanisms, including sponsorships for tournaments, training opportunities, equipment, and international exposure.
He underscored the necessity to ensure talented children are not denied opportunities due to financial constraints, recalling previous times the county stepped in to aid gifted learners in international competitions.
He pledged continued backing for the chess community and urged stakeholders to draft proposals that would enable the county to deliver meaningful, sustainable assistance.
The event also highlighted the county’s broader youth‑empowerment agenda, which encompasses sports development, ICT training, coaching initiatives, and economic empowerment projects aimed at young people.
During the ceremony, Governor Wamatangi received further recognition when representatives of the International Association of World Peace Advocates awarded him the title of International Eminent Peace Ambassador.
A delegation comprising representatives from several African countries praised the governor for his contributions to education and youth development, especially his work to strengthen early childhood education programs in Kiambu County.
Speaking at the presentation, Ambassador Emmanuel of the International Association of World Peace Advocates noted that the governor’s initiatives had earned admiration beyond Kenya’s borders and serve as a model for other African leaders.
Accepting the honour, Governor Wamatangi thanked the organization and dedicated the award to the people of Kiambu, reaffirming his commitment to education, youth empowerment, and community advancement.
The celebration concluded with gift presentation to the young chess players, a group photo session, and renewed calls for increased investment in intellectual sports to nurture future leaders and champions.
The triumph of the Kiambu Under‑18 chess team has further cemented the county’s reputation as a rising hub for talent development, with leaders confident that more young people will attain international success through ongoing support and mentorship.