The Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF) Chess Tournament shone a spotlight on emerging talent within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), as players showcased their tactical brilliance and resilience on the chessboard at Ulinzi Sports Complex (USC), Lan’gata.
The tournament, organized under the leadership of the CDF, brought together officers, service members drawn from various formations and units, and invited guests from Chess Kenya. It provided a platform for sharpening critical thinking, strategy, tactical planning, and patience that resonated strongly with military service.
The Chief of the Defence Forces, in his speech read by the General Officer Commanding, Central Command (CENTCOM), Major General John Nkoimo, lauded the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) chess fraternity for their commitment and discipline during the CDF Chess Championships. He noted that the tournament is not only a platform to showcase sporting excellence but also a demonstration of mental agility, strategic thinking, and resilience that mirror the demands of military service.
The CDF further commended the organizers, participants, and supporters for ensuring the success of the event, affirming that such championships strengthen unity, camaraderie, and talent development within the KDF. He emphasized that chess, much like military operations, requires patience, foresight, and precision, and encouraged service members to embrace the game as a tool for sharpening critical thinking and decision-making. He further reaffirmed his commitment to supporting sports across the KDF, noting that they contribute to both the physical and intellectual readiness of troops.
In his remarks earlier, while launching the championship, the Commander Kenya Army, Lieutenant General David Keter commended the Chief of Defence Forces Chess Championships for promoting mental discipline, critical thinking, and teamwork among service members. He noted that chess, much like military operations, requires strategy, foresight, and patience, making it a valuable tool for sharpening decision-making skills.
Lt Gen Keter further urged participants to embrace sports as a unifying factor within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and a platform for nurturing talent. He congratulated the Chief of Defence Force for allowing the tournament even in schools, emphasizing that such initiatives not only boost morale but also strengthen camaraderie across the Services.
The CDF Chess Championships reaffirmed KDF’s dedication to nurturing diverse talents within the ranks, demonstrating that excellence in service extends beyond the battlefield to intellectual and sporting arenas . It also highlighted KDF’s commitment to nurturing diverse talents beyond the battlefield, showcasing chess as a tool for sharpening decision-making, patience, and critical thinking.
Lieutenant Brian Onduso from Kenya Air Force, Laikipia Air Base emerged champion winning nine out of nine games, followed by Major Kantuli from Kenya Army in second place and Warrant Officer Class two Karitie, Kenya Air Force in third. Second Lieutenant Chelagat, Kenya Army (KAOC), was the top female player. Kenya Air Force emerged the champions in service of the year.
The championships not only identified promising talents but also set the stage for KDF’s greater participation in national and international chess tournaments. Winners were awarded trophies and medals, while all participants were lauded for embodying the spirit of teamwork and excellence.
The competition accentuates KDF’s commitment to nurturing, promoting mental discipline and fostering affinity among its personnel.
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