From Kakuma to Kisumu: Refugee Youth Making Bold Moves Through Chess

The transformative power of chess continues to shine in the Kakuma and Kalobeyei refugee camps in Kenya, where the Chess for Protection initiative is helping young people unlock new opportunities through education, competition, and community engagement.

Recently, the Kakuma Chess Club achieved outstanding success at the Victoria East Africa Under-21 Open Chess Championships, fielding ten young players across four categories — Prestige Open, Prestige Ladies, Elite Open, and Elite Ladies. Their dedication and progress earned the club the “Best Chess Club” award in the Elite Category, along with several top finishes in age divisions including Under-12, Under-16, Under-18, and Under-21.

These achievements highlight the long-term impact of the Chess for Protection program, implemented under the leadership of Alaak Daniel Pager, Local Project Lead for Kakuma and Kalobeyei. According to Pager:

“As the Local Project Lead for Kakuma and Kalobeyei Chess for Protection, I have witnessed how chess continues to transform young lives and create lasting opportunities. Chess fosters critical thinking, discipline, and strategic planning — skills that extend beyond the chessboard into education, leadership, and community development.”

Empowerment Through Education and Employment

Several members who began as learners are now working as facilitators within the community, earning an income while inspiring others through chess. This transition from players to trainers demonstrates how the initiative builds local capacity and supports sustainable youth empowerment.

Impact Beyond the Chessboard

Participation in regional competitions has given many of these young players their first chance to travel outside the camp, meet peers from other regions, and experience diverse cultures. These encounters promote confidence, adaptability, and leadership — qualities that will serve them well beyond chess.

Partnerships and Support

The success of Chess for Protection is made possible through the continued collaboration of FIDE, Chess Kenya, UNHCR, and the Lutheran World Federation (LWF). Their support ensures that chess remains a bridge to education and opportunity for refugee and host-community youth.

Teamwork and Support

The ongoing success of Chess for Protection is the result of strong teamwork and collaboration.The program is led by Anastasia Sorokina, FIDE Social Commission Chair, and Dana Reizniece, Project Supervisor, whose strategic guidance and commitment ensure its continued growth and sustainability.

At the national level, Benard Wanjala, President of Chess Kenya, has played a key role in facilitating partnerships and promoting the inclusion of refugee players in the Kenyan chess community.

On the training side, Coach Sergejs Klimakovs has provided consistent mentorship and tournament preparation, while Girls’ Club coaches Anastasia Karlovich and Salome Melia continue to empower young female players through chess-based education and leadership.

Looking Ahead

Pager emphasizes that the program’s next goal is to expand its reach and ensure long-term sustainability:

“Our vision is to strengthen the impact of Chess for Protection by expanding training opportunities, increasing regional participation, and integrating chess into school and community programs.”

The Kakuma Chess Club’s results in Kisumu are a testament to the power of chess as a tool for education, protection, and empowerment. In some of the world’s most challenging environments, chess continues to serve as a beacon of hope and possibility.