KISUMU, Kenya – Kisumu County is hosting the 2025 Victoria East Africa Under-21 Chess Tournament, a move underscoring its strategic ambition to become a leading hub for sports and talent development in the East African region. The prestigious event, which commenced on Friday, November 7, 2025, has attracted top young chess players from across the region, providing a platform for competition and intellectual development.

In his opening address, Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o reaffirmed his government's commitment to fostering youth talent through sports. “This year’s tournament has brought together some of the sharpest young chess players from across the region. It is truly inspiring to see these talented minds come together to test their skills and celebrate the spirit of competition,” he stated. The Governor pledged ongoing support for the annual tournament, promising to enhance facilities and forge partnerships to ensure its continued growth and success.

Prof. Nyong’o emphasized the broader benefits of the game, noting, “Chess is not just about winning; it’s about engaging with others, learning, and growing through challenge and discipline.” This sentiment aligns with the county's broader policy goals. The Kisumu County Sports Policy 2021 aims to nurture sporting talents among young people and promote sports for all as a tool for personal health and socio-economic development.

Strategic Investment in Sports Tourism

Hosting events like the chess tournament is a deliberate component of Kisumu's strategy to boost its economy through sports tourism. The county's Department of Trade, Tourism, Industry and Marketing has a stated mission to develop Kisumu into a leading and competitive tourism destination. By attracting participants and spectators from neighboring countries, such events stimulate local hospitality, transport, and retail sectors. The tournament builds on Kisumu's growing portfolio of hosting significant sporting events, including the Dala Sevens rugby tournament, a leg of the national sevens circuit, and the Kenya Inter-County Sports and Cultural Association (KICOSCA) games.

The Kisumu County Annual Development Plan for 2026-2027 explicitly recognizes the promotion of sports, culture, and the arts as a key driver for enriching community life and boosting the tourism sector. The administration’s vision is to create a “prosperous, globally competitive county,” with investments in human capital and youth creativity being central to this goal.

Nurturing a New Generation of Talent

The focus on intellectual sports like chess complements other talent development initiatives in the region. The Kenya Academy of Sports recently launched a National Talent Camp in Kisumu, aiming to provide comprehensive training for young athletes across various disciplines. Such programs, supported by the county government, are designed to create a structured pathway for young talents to transition from grassroots potential to national and international competitors.

Chess, in particular, has seen a surge in organized development across Kenya. Organizations like the Nairobi Chess Academy & Club and Terrian Chess Africa are working to popularize the game and use it as a tool for youth mentorship and developing critical thinking skills. The Chess Kenya Federation oversees a busy calendar of events, including national school championships that serve as feeders for regional competitions like the one in Kisumu. The Victoria East Africa U21 tournament, organized by the Victoria Chess Club, has become a key fixture, drawing international participants and raising the profile of the game in Western Kenya.

As the tournament progresses through the weekend, ending on Sunday, November 9, 2025, all eyes are on the emerging talent. Beyond the crowning of champions, the event serves as a critical validation of Kisumu County's strategic vision. By successfully hosting regional competitions and investing in youth development, Kisumu is making calculated moves to solidify its claim as East Africa's next major sporting and intellectual capital.