Grandmasters Reign and Rising Stars Shine at the 2026 Mavens Open in Nairobi
The KICC Delegates Hall in Nairobi was transformed into a battlefield of intellect and strategy from March 19th to 22nd, 2026, as it hosted the prestigious Mavens Open International Chess Championship. With a massive turnout of approximately 380 players from across 10 federations, the event lived up to its reputation as one of the best-organized and highest-stakes tournaments in the East African region.
The championship coincided with a festive atmosphere in the city, as Friday, March 20th, was declared a National Holiday in Kenya to mark Idd-ul-Fitr, allowing fans and families to flock to the venue to witness world-class chess.
The Elite Battle: Plat and Czebe Show Their Class
In the Open Section, the international Grandmasters (GMs) proved why they were the favorites. Slovakia’s GM Vojtech Plat, the tournament’s top seed, demonstrated exceptional poise throughout the four-day grind. Plat finished with an impressive 7.5 points, securing the coveted $5,000 (approx. KES 750,000) top prize.
Hot on his heels was Hungary’s GM Attila Czebe, who finished just half a point behind with 7 points, taking home the runner-up prize of $1,500 (approx. KES 150,000).
Uganda’s Olympiad Heroes Stand Tall
Team Uganda made a significant statement at the event. Despite the fierce competition from the GMs, the Ugandan Olympiad stars showed remarkable grit. Nyola Wasswa Mark and Haruna Nsubuga performed brilliantly, finishing in 3rd and 4th place respectively. Their presence was a testament to the growing strength of Ugandan chess, even as East Africa’s highest-rated player, IM Arthur Ssegwanyi, faced a tougher run, eventually finishing in 9th.
Sasha Mongeli Reclaims the Throne
In the Ladies Section, Kenya’s own WFM Sasha Mongeli stood tall. The former national champion displayed dominant form to clinch the top spot and the $1,500 prize fund. She was closely followed by rising teenage star Bella Nashipae, who finished second, further cementing her status as one of Kenya’s most promising talents.
Junior Category: The Future of the Game
The Junior Category, held on March 21st, was a spectacle of young talent. Organizers ensured the stakes were high for the budding grandmasters, with winners walking away with impressive tech gadgets:
- 1st Place: Tablet + Trophy
- 2nd Place: Mobile Phone + Medal
- 3rd Place: Bluetooth Speaker + Medal
Special Awards and Team Honors
The Mavens Open went beyond individual glory, recognizing the collective effort of clubs and schools:
- Best Club Team: KCB Chess Club (KES 20,000 + Trophy)
- Best University Team: Kenyatta University (KES 20,000 + Trophy)
- Other Honors: Dedicated awards were also presented to the Best PWD Player, the Best Mavens Player, and the Best School.
Tournament Atmosphere
Players and spectators alike praised the “high-level standards” of the event. From the professional setup at the KICC to the performance-based incentives (such as the KES 5,000 bounty for local players who defeated a Grandmaster), the 2026 Mavens Open has set a new benchmark for chess in Africa.
As the curtains fell on Sunday evening, it was clear that while the Grandmasters took the titles, the real winner was the spirit of African chess, which continues to soar to new heights.
Special mention of Jadon Simiyu of Kenya, who stood tall and raised the flag high as the Kenyan champion at the event. He also took down the East African highest rated player IM Arthur Ssegwanyi.
these are the games that stood out at the event as GM Plat and Sasha stood tall!
