Kenyan youngsters have won a silver at the just concluded Intellect Academy Cup held in Novokuznetsk, Kuzbass, Russia, from February 16-22, 2026, a surprise podium finish, which also stands as one of the tournament’s biggest upsets, a proud milestone for Kenyan chess.
The FIDE-rated youth team competition, played in a unique five-player age-restricted format, tested not only individual brilliance but also teamwork, resilience, and consistency across multiple rounds.
At the heart of this historic achievement was Muhani Amini (2018), whose outstanding performances proved decisive throughout the campaign as his determination and fighting spirit galvanized the squad during key rounds, enabling team Kenya to surge up the standings and ultimately secure Silver in dramatic fashion.
The Silver-medal-winning team comprised Floyd Wesonga (Captain and Board 1), Dylan Wema (Board 2), Jadarudo Achieng (Board 3), Amini Muhani (Board 4) and Ryan Mutinda (Board 5).
The team was guided by Coach Moses Kwereba, supported by Male Chaperone David Chesaina, Invited Arbiter and Chaperone Caroline Njega, and Parent Representative Geoffrey Mutinda.
