Chess ace Cronje stuns rivals in Mombasa
Justicia Shipena
Nine-year-old Frederick Cronje went undefeated at the 2025 African Schools Individual Chess Championship held in Mombasa, Kenya, from 22 to 29 May.
Cronje secured seven wins and two draws in nine rounds, earning him the title of African Schools Under-9 Chess Champion.
The Namibia Chess Federation (NCF) praised Cronje for his calm and focused performance. “It was not just about the moves on the board. It was about heart, focus, and incredible determination,” the federation said.
They described Cronje’s play as courageous and mature, adding, “To say we’re proud is an understatement. Frederick, you have inspired a whole nation and shown that age is no limit when passion and discipline come together. The future of Namibian chess is bright because of young stars like you.”
More than 1,100 players from eleven federations competed in the championship.
Six age groups took part: Under 7, Under 9, Under 11, Under 13, Under 15, and Under 17. Namibia was represented by a 26-member team.
Winners in each category, both open and girls, earned personal rights to participate in the 2026 FIDE World Schools Individual Chess Championship.
