Nathaniel Manyeki from Kenya took the gold medal in the Under-10 Open section at the 2025 African Youth Chess Championship. The event wrapped up on December 13, 2025, in Harare, Zimbabwe. Manyeki scored an impressive 8.5 out of 9 points. He finished ahead of Ngwao Keoletile from Botswana with 7 points and Elvis Tumusiime from Uganda also on 7.
The 16th edition of the tournament brought together young players from across Africa. Kenya sent a strong team and ended up topping the medal table for the first time.
They won 10 medals in total: four gold, two silver, and four bronze. Other Kenyan golds came from Cyprian Mbaabu in Under-16 Open, Elizabeth Cassidy Maina in Under-14 Girls, and Breetalizah Amanda in Under-10 Girls.
Manyeki’s performance stood out. He lost just half a point over nine rounds. That kind of score shows focus and skill at a young age. He attends Brookside International School in Nairobi and has been playing chess for a few years now.
This win adds to his growing list of achievements. In 2023, he took gold in the Under-8 category at the African Youth Championship in Egypt with a perfect 9 out of 9.
He has held national titles in younger groups too. Last year, he placed high in other events and even got recognition at the SOYA Awards in Kenya as a promising young athlete.
People in the chess community see big things ahead for him. Kenya has never had a Grandmaster yet. Manyeki’s strong play and quick progress make some think he could be the first. He trains hard and competes often in local and regional tournaments.
The whole Kenyan team got praise for their preparation. They had a two-week training camp before the trip. Coaches like Dr. Victor Ng’ani helped with strategy and mindset. The Ministry of Sports supported the travel and costs.
Back home, officials welcomed the players warmly. Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi called it a historic moment. Chess Kenya shared photos and updates online, showing the medals and happy faces.
Chess is picking up in Kenya, especially among kids. Schools and clubs push it more now. Wins like this help get attention and support. Young players look up to successes on the continental stage.
The African Chess Confederation highlighted fair play too. Many kids got medals for good behavior during games.
For Manyeki, this gold opens doors. He might play in world youth events next. Fans watch his rating climb on FIDE lists.
This result puts Kenya on the map for chess. North African countries often lead, but East Africa showed strength this time. Harare hosted well, and everyone talked about the bright future for African youth chess.
Stories of young talents like Manyeki spread hope. He keeps practicing and aiming higher. Kenya waits to see how far he goes.
