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Frank Rotich 1 month ago

Kenya names team of six players for World Olympiad for Persons with Disability

Team Kenya chess team to the World Olympiad. [Courtesy Chess Kenya]

Kenya is set to make its mark at the third World Olympiad for Persons with Disability, with a six-player chess team departing for Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on Tuesday ahead of the prestigious global competition.

The Olympiad will be held from September 10-18, 2026, with Kenya among only five countries selected to present a team at the event.

The Kenyan squad features experienced players Hassan Daudi, Isaac Babu Odiah, Sadam Ali Sheikh, Mary Nduku, Pius Clement Chumo and Ronny Otieno.

The players were selected earlier this year based on their ratings to meet the participation deadline and will be guided by coaches John Mukabi and Aguda Lwanga.

Ann Wambui Kung’u, the Gender and Special Needs Secretary, will serve as Head of Delegation, assisted by Rodah Olisa.

The delegation will also include four county officials as part of Chess Kenya’s efforts to build capacity and strengthen chess development at the grassroots.

They are Ronald Bolo from Nairobi County, Caroline Onyancha from Nyamira County, Vincent Ambani from West Pokot County and Gladys Langat from Kericho County.

Chess Kenya volunteers Paul Oketch and Rodgers Ogutu will also accompany the team and provide player support throughout the competition.

Chess Kenya President Andrew Owili has wished Team Kenya a safe journey and a successful campaign as the players prepare to represent the country on the international stage.

The team is expected to arrive in Samarkand early enough to settle in and get adequate rest before the competition begins.