World Chess Olympiad triumph inspires Getrude to mentor future stars

Getrude Banini, Ghana’s Professional Chess Champion, has pledged to inspire the next generation of players following her outstanding debut at the 45th World Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary.

The talented chess player, who earned the prestigious Woman Candidate Master (WCM) title, has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the global chess arena and is now committed to uncovering new talent to secure a brighter future for the sport in Ghana.

Speaking with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Gertrude, a native of Keta in the Volta Region, reflected on her remarkable performance at the Olympiad, which has caught the attention of chess enthusiasts and experts around the world.

"I had the privilege of competing alongside 180 seasoned players from across the globe, and it’s been an incredible journey," she said.

"Competing at the Olympiad has been my dream for years, and walking away with a title is beyond what I ever imagined."

The Woman Candidate Master title is awarded by FIDE, the International Chess Federation, to players who demonstrate exceptional skill and win at least 50 per cent of their games in a minimum of seven matches during the Olympiad.

Gertrude’s achievement highlights her impressive skills and dedication to the game.

Despite her success, Gertrude's mission extends beyond personal achievement. She aims to serve as a role model for young girls and break down barriers in a sport traditionally dominated by men.

"Chess has always seemed like a male-dominated field, but with determination and commitment, I want to change that narrative and show the world that women are just as capable," she explained.

A former student of the University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA), she has set her sights on competing in other international tournaments to continue showcasing her talents.

Her ultimate goal is to secure the Woman FIDE Master title and elevate Ghana’s presence on the global chess stage.

In addition to her competitive ambitions, Gertrude is passionate about nurturing the next generation of chess players, particularly young girls, through the establishment of chess programmes across the country, unearthing talent at the grassroots level. 

She is also advocating the creation of chess clubs in all regions of Ghana to foster greater participation in the sport.

Gertrude’s remarkable achievement at the 45th World Chess Olympiad is not just a personal victory but a source of national pride and an inspiration to aspiring chess players across Ghana. — GNA