African Genius Chess Championship 2026 crowns winners across seven age categories

The second African Genius Chess Championship concluded on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Ghud Park, Accra Mall, crowning winners across seven age categories. Organized by Imagination Africa and Mentors Chess Academy, the event attracted around 200 participants, including young chess players, parents, guardians, and coaches. The aim was to promote intellectual development, inclusion, and equal opportunities for children from various socio-economic backgrounds.

Standout performer from the inaugural edition, Acheampong Dave Quansah from Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School, claimed the Under-20 title. Gyepi-Garbrah Emmanuel Kelvin from GTUC secured the second spot, while Anang Richard of the University of Ghana took third place. Winners received prizes like laptops, printers, irons, and vouchers from CanWest Ltd, along with science sets from Dext Technology. Twisco contributed products for participants, who received certificates, trophies, and medals.

Imagination Africa co-founder Mariam Mahamah expressed enthusiasm for the championship to become a well-known and eagerly anticipated event. She encouraged participants to aim for various finishes, aiming for first or second place. The initiative builds on the success of its first edition in 2024, which brought together more than 150 young players from over 15 schools across Ghana.

The purpose of the championship is to nurture critical thinking, concentration, and problem-solving skills among young people while expanding access to chess for diverse backgrounds.

David Acheampong, founder of Mentors Chess Academy, highlighted the game's ability to cut across various facets of life and its positive impact on the development of young participants. He mentioned improvements in education, mathematics, and problem-solving skills since the initiative began.