For many years, chess has often been perceived as a game reserved for the elite, foreigners, or affluent communities. In Kenya, it is commonly associated with wealthy families or the Indian community, leaving many young people from rural or modest backgrounds believing it is beyond their reach.
However, Jane Wangari, a young woman from Kamune sub-location in Mathioya Sub County, Murang’a County, has debunked that belief and is steadily changing that narrative. Through determination, discipline, and the guidance of a committed mentor, she has risen through the ranks of the game to become one of the country’s promising chess talents.
Jane first gained national attention after qualifying to represent Kenya at the 20th edition of the African Individual Chess Championship held in Cairo, Egypt, from May 12 to 21 last year. Although financial constraints prevented her from making the trip, her achievement marked a significant milestone, proving that talent in chess is not confined to social class.
“The only difference between the rich and the poor in chess is opportunity,” Jane says. “When I qualified, my family and friends were not in a position to raise the money needed for travel, but I believe I will still get another chance.”
Her journey into chess began in an unlikely way. At the age of 14, Jane jokingly added the nickname “Talented” to her name, although she had not yet discovered what her talent was. As the firstborn in a family of five, she grew up in a humble household and attended Kamune Day Secondary School, where she describes herself as an average student academically.
“My strength was never really in academics,” she admits with a smile. “But I always felt there was something I could do well.”
Her turning point came in Form Two, when a new teacher, Josphat Kimani, was posted to her school by the Teachers Service Commission. Unknown to many at the time, Kimani carried with him not only teaching skills but also a deep passion for chess.
Kimani had been introduced to chess during his time as a student at Kenyatta University, where he developed his skills under the guidance of a trainer who instilled discipline and resilience. After graduation, he was posted to Brethren Day School in Laikipia East, where he attempted to introduce chess, but his efforts were unsuccessful as students preferred music.
A subsequent transfer to Tigithi Secondary School near Nanyuki Town did not yield better results. Despite the presence of a chessboard, administrative challenges made it difficult for him to establish a chess programme.
Frustrated but determined, Kimani sought a transfer back to Murang’a County, hoping to join established institutions like Murang’a High School or Kahuhia Girls High School, where he believed chess would thrive. Instead, he was posted to Kamune Day Secondary School, a relatively unknown institution. Initially disappointed, he even considered declining the transfer.
However, a conversation with the then County Director of Education, Mr. Ng’ang’a, changed his perspective. He was advised that while established schools already had structured clubs, Kamune offered him a blank slate to build both chess and music programmes from scratch.
“When I arrived, I realised this was an opportunity,” Kimani recalls. “I could shape something new.”
It was in this environment that Jane’s destiny began to unfold. When Kimani introduced chess at the school, Jane joined half-heartedly and later dropped out. But Kimani, drawing from his own experiences, did not give up on her or other students who showed even the slightest interest.
“I used gentle encouragement to keep them engaged,” he says. “I knew that once they understood the game, they would love it.”
Jane eventually returned to the game, and this time, she embraced it fully. Her dedication began to pay off. Through rigorous training and participation in competitions, she steadily improved her skills.
In 2025, her efforts bore fruit when she won the Mount Kenya Region tournament and went on to triumph at the national level in her category. This victory earned her a place in the Kenyan team for the continental championship in Egypt.
Although she was unable to travel due to financial challenges, the experience strengthened her resolve rather than discouraging her.
“I know I will still compete internationally,” she says confidently. “This is just the beginning.”
Jane completed her secondary education in 2025 but did not attain grades required for university admission. Undeterred, she now plans to pursue a course in tourism and hospitality at a college, even as she continues to build her career in chess.
Today, Jane is not only a player but also a trainer. She works alongside her mentor to teach chess at various schools across Kamacharia Division and beyond, including areas as far as Kenol in Maragua Subcounty.
Kimani, recognising the growing interest in the game, established the Chess Masters Club, where he serves as Founder and Director. Jane plays a key leadership role as the principal trainer, mentoring young learners and helping expand the club’s reach.
On March 14 this year, the club facilitated the participation of 77 players in the 56th Mount Kenya Regional Championships held at Bishop Gatimu Ngandu Girls High School in Nyeri County. All participants qualified for the national championships scheduled for April at Mang’u High School.
Jane takes pride in the achievements of her trainees, including her own siblings. One of her brothers, a student at Wahundura Secondary School, is among those who qualified for the nationals, while her younger sister in Grade Five has already attained mastery in the game.
“I train my siblings and other young players,” she says. “It makes me happy to see them succeed.”
The Chess Masters Club operates on a unique model aimed at inclusivity. Training is offered free of charge to students in public schools, while those in private institutions pay a modest fee. The income generated is used to sustain the programme and support its expansion.
“We want every child, regardless of background, to have access to chess,” Kimani explains. “The fees from private schools allow us to provide free training in public schools.”
From the revenue, the trainers allocate 30 per cent each as salary, while 40 per cent is reinvested into the club. Through this model, they have managed to purchase a seven-seater vehicle, which enables them to reach students in remote areas more efficiently.
Kimani now plans to equip Jane with driving skills so she can travel independently to train more students.
“Jane has a gentle approach, especially with younger learners,” he says. “Once I introduce them to the basics, she takes over and nurtures them.”
Beyond chess, Jane is actively involved in her church, Christian International Ministries in Kamune, where she serves as the youth chairperson. During her school years, she also led the worship team in the Christian Union.
Kimani notes that Jane is equally talented in music, recalling how she once mastered a Kipsigis song overnight. Despite this, he advised her to focus on chess, citing its untapped potential.
“Music is already saturated,” he says. “Chess is a new frontier with immense opportunities.”
Jane embraced this advice and has since become an advocate for the game as a viable career path.
The club has also diversified its activities to include selling chess boards locally, reducing the need for parents to travel to Nairobi for equipment. This initiative not only supports the club financially but also promotes accessibility.
Kimani believes chess can play a transformative role in society, particularly among young people.
“Chess keeps the mind engaged and reduces idleness, which often leads to drug and alcohol abuse and gambling,” he says.
He adds that the game has structured modules that can be monetised, offering trainers a sustainable source of income. He cites the example of one of his former students at the University of Nairobi who trains 13 learners at a fee of Sh500 per session, enabling him to pay his fees and sustain himself.
“Chess can support livelihoods,” Kimani emphasises. “It is not just a game.”
He further highlights its cognitive benefits, noting that early exposure can improve concentration, discipline, and decision-making skills, while also helping address challenges such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Efforts to mainstream chess are also gaining momentum at the national level. The Chess Kenya Federation has petitioned the Senate to include chess in school co-curricular activities. Starting this year’s second term, the game is set to be officially incorporated into school competitions alongside traditional sports.
“This is a major boost,” Kimani says. “It will remove financial barriers and expand opportunities for many learners.”
Looking ahead, he envisions a programme dubbed “Chess Mashinani”, aimed at introducing the game to every school and even churches across Murang’a County.
During a recent church visit, he was encouraged by the enthusiasm shown by Sunday school children.
“I see a lot of potential,” he says. “We will nurture it.”
Jane, now a key figure in the Chess Masters Club, continues to contribute ideas for growth and sustainability. Her journey from a rural village to national recognition serves as an inspiration to many young people.
“I want others to know that where you come from does not limit you,” she says. “With dedication and the right support, you can achieve your dreams.”
By Esther Mbuthia
