The Rwanda Chess Federation has invited Kenyan clubs KCB Chess Club and Equity Chess Club for an open competition slated for next month, according to the Federation acting president Kevin Ganza.

Ganza said that the federation is currently working on the details and looking for sponsorship but everything should be set at least by next week. A Tournament Calendar for 2015 is also being finalised, he added.

Meanwhile, Ganza said to ensure that children start playing chess at a young age, the federation is fast-tracking a mini-chess programme.

The programme will take place next year in February with five primary schools, namely: St. Famille secondary school and Akumunigo, both in Nyarugenge District; Masaka and Kimisange, in Kicukiro District; and Mayange B in Bugesera District.

"It is meant for five to nine-year olds. We have a pilot project of five schools under sponsorship of the Kasparov Chess Foundation-Africa,” Ganza said.

Last year, Russian Chess legend and Grand master Gary Kasparov, during a visit to Rwanda, urged the local Chess Federation to improve infrastructure and introduce the sport to schoolchildren if the country is to become a regional chess powerhouse in the near future.

james.karuhanga@newtimes.co.rw