Madiba Kimathi Kuenyehia III wins silver medal at Africa Chess Championships - He eyes gold medal

A Grade One student of the Lincoln Community School in Accra, Madiba Kimathi Kuenyehia III, has won a silver medal in the just-ended Under-7 category of the 2024 Africa Schools Individual Chess Championships held in Accra. 

At just six-years-old, Madiba has shown that age is not a barrier to greatness. He beat other best young chess players from Ghana, The Gambia, Kenya, Malawi and Zimbabwe in the tournament to win one of the coveted prizes. 

When the Junior Graphic interviewed him, Madiba, beaming with pride, was eager to share his journey in chess with readers.

How it all began

Madiba said his love and journey in chess started when he was four-years-old after he saw his older brother play. 

He added that with the support of his family, he took the game seriously and quickly improved. 

“I really enjoy chess because it’s fun and helps me think critically,” he said with a bright smile. 

Even though Madiba is young, he has played against older and tougher opponents, some as old as nine, 10 and 11 years.

 “One of my toughest and memorable matches during the tournament was against a player from Kenya who was three years older than me. It was difficult but I tried my best, kept playing and I won,” he recalled.

When asked how he felt about winning the silver medal, he beamed and said, “I felt really good. I am sure it will feel much nicer when I win the gold medal. That is what I am aiming for."

Madiba said that he looked up to Magnus Carlsen, the Norwegian Chess grand master and five-time world champion, as his role model. 

He said he admired Magnus’s exceptional skills and dreams of meeting and playing with him one day. 

When asked about his chess experience, Madiba said that in addition to playing in-person, he also found online chess fun and interactive because of the use of bright colours and fun sounds.

Today, he trains with a personal chess coach, practices regularly on online platforms, as well as participates in his school’s chess club, where he plays with his friends. 

Reflecting on Madiba’s achievements, the President of the Ghana Chess Association, Mr Philip Ameku, expressed great pride in his success. 

“His confidence in competing at such a high level is inspiring, not only for young chess players but for all children pursuing their passions,” Mr Ameku stated.

He also encouraged parents to support their children in exploring their interests. 

“When children are allowed to follow their passions, the results can be extraordinary. Madiba’s story proves what can be achieved with dedication and the right support,” he added.

Balancing chess and school

Despite his busy chess schedule, Madiba still finds time for school work and other activities.

His parents, Mr and Mrs Kuenyehia, explained that they worked closely with his teachers and other helpers to ensure he stayed on top of his studies.

“We make sure he gets enough time for school, chess and play. In addition to chess, Madiba also enjoys playing football and swimming,” she said.

Mr and Mrs Kuenyehia said they were particularly thrilled by his wins that led to his silver medal at the championship and believe in exposing their children to various activities to give them a broad range of experiences. 

“We introduced Madiba and his older brother to many sports and hobbies so they could explore different interests. His older brother also plays chess, which serves as a source of motivation for Madiba”, they said.

They mentioned that there were days when Madiba felt like not practising, adding that whenever that happens, they have to find ways to keep him motivated.

“One of our challenges is finding the right rewards to encourage him to continue striving for excellence in chess,” they added.

Advice to young chess players

Madiba’s message to other children who want to play chess is: “Chess is a good sport, but it is also competitive. Keep practising, enjoy the game and never give up,” he advised.

With his incredible talent, strong support system and determination, Madiba is well on his way to becoming one of Ghana’s finest chess masters.