Equity Chess Club Dominates Kisumu Open Grand Prix 2026
Captain Njagi Kabugu (front right) receives a trophy from Chess Kenya Vice President Andrew Owili (front left) after Equity emerged the Best Club winner at the Kisumu Chess Open in Kisumu
Equity Chess Club successfully defended its Best Club title at the Kisumu Open Grand Prix 2026, reaffirming its dominance on the national chess scene after securing top honours across several categories during the tournament.
Leading the club’s impressive performance was Mark Nyola, who delivered a flawless display to win the Open Category and emerge as the overall tournament champion with a perfect 6/6 score. Nyola defeated a strong field of competitors, including the 2025 champion Gong Thon Gong of South Sudan and former Kenya national champion Martin Njoroge of Kenya Commercial Bank Chess Club.
Equity’s strength was also evident in other divisions. Jully Mutisya, the reigning Kenya Ladies National Champion and a Candidate Master, finished first runner-up in the Ladies Category. Her teammate Haruna Nsubuga secured first runner-up in the Open Category, highlighting the club’s depth of talent.
In the junior ranks, rising chess prodigy Kyle Kuka claimed the Juniors Category title, showcasing the club’s growing pool of young talent.
Speaking after the tournament, the club captain praised the team’s collective effort, noting that the victory had set a strong tone for the season ahead.
“I am immensely proud of this team and the dedication everyone displayed this weekend. Our performance here has generated momentum as we set our sights on reclaiming the National Chess League title,” the captain said.
Tournament champion Nyola acknowledged the high level of competition he faced throughout the event.
“This was a challenging tournament and the players showed great determination. Every round required focus and resilience. I’m grateful for the support from my team and hope this is just the beginning of a successful year,” he said.
With victories across the Open, Ladies, and Junior categories, Equity Chess Club once again demonstrated its consistency and competitive strength, reinforcing its position as one of the leading forces in Kenyan chess.
