On 3 December 2025, Commander Kenya Navy Major General Paul Otieno officiated the closing ceremony of the first-ever Commander Kenya Navy Chess Tournament held at the Kenya Navy Base Mtongwe in Mombasa County.
The tournament played a significant role in boosting operational readiness and professional growth. Chess sharpens strategic thinking, helping naval personnel anticipate situations, evaluate various courses of action and make well informed decisions, key competencies in maritime operations.
In his remarks during the tournament, Major General Otieno highlighted the relevance of the game to the professionalism of service personnel.
“Chess, as we know, is more than just a game. It is a reflection of strategy, patience, foresight and decisiveness, qualities central to our profession.”
The game also helps service personnel strengthen their problem solving skills by fostering logical reasoning, situational awareness and adaptability, attributes that mirror real life naval operations. The discipline and patience required in chess align with the core values of naval service, encouraging focus, resilience and composed decision making under pressure.
The event was attended by Formation Commanders, Principal Staff Officers, Senior Officers, Officers, Service Members and their families.
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