By FECADE
The Cameroon Chess Federation (FECADE) took another significant step in its remarkable development journey with the successful staging of the Unity Tournament on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Yaoundé Multipurpose Sports Complex. Organised under the leadership of FECADE President Benjamin Didier BANLOCK and under the patronage of the Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Professor Narcisse MOUELLE KOMBI, the highly competitive event officially launched Cameroon’s 2025-2026 chess season.
From the early hours of the afternoon until late into the night, players from across the country and beyond competed fiercely in the Benjamin, Cadet, Open Mixed, Women’s and Veteran categories. The tournament delivered exciting encounters, strategic brilliance and unforgettable moments as participants battled for ranking points and prestigious honours.
Renewed Confidence in FECADE’s Leadership
Representing the Minister of Sports and Physical Education during the opening ceremony, Pedagogic Inspector of Physical Education, Dieudonné MBARGA, praised FECADE’s leadership for its outstanding organisation of the event.
He commended FECADE President Benjamin Didier BANLOCK and his team for their commitment to promoting chess in Cameroon and reaffirmed the Ministry’s continued support for the federation’s initiatives. Addressing the athletes, he encouraged fair-play, discipline and sportsmanship throughout the competition.
The ceremony attracted an impressive gathering of distinguished guests, including Senator Seidou MBOMBO NJOYA, presidents of various national sports federations, the Director of the National Football Academy of Cameroon (ANAFOOT), Carl Enow Ngachu, the President of the Gabonese Chess Federation, and several national and international dignitaries.
A Colourful Parade Sets the Tone
One of the most captivating moments of the opening ceremony was a vibrant parade featuring participants dressed in coordinated attire and proudly waving symbolic flags. The procession brought colour, excitement and elegance to the occasion as participants paid tribute to the distinguished guests.
The parade also offered reigning champions from the previous season an opportunity to showcase their trophies and relive their achievements before an enthusiastic audience of parents, coaches, chess enthusiasts and supporters. It was a fitting celebration of FECADE’s rapid growth and growing influence within Cameroon’s sporting landscape.
Champions Rise in the Moment of Truth
Following hours of intense competition, the tournament culminated in the much-anticipated prize-award ceremony, where the best performers were rewarded for their excellence.
Open Mixed Category
1. Noumbo Guepi Vidal – 250,000 FCFA
2. Donkeng Hussel – 150,000 FCFA
3. Ntamatungiro Wilfred – 100,000 FCFA
Women’s Category
1. Ngo Sohna Carole – 150,000 FCFA
2. Mbassa Merisse Joyce – 100,000 FCFA
3. Wefang Lucrèce – 50,000 FCFA
Cadet (U-17) Category
1. Kamga Fondjo – 100,000 FCFA
2. Ngangoua Nana – 75,000 FCFA
3. Tene Ebosse – 50,000 FCFA
Veteran Category
1. Bongo Akanga Barthélémy – 100,000 FCFA
2. Mahamat Hachim (Chad) – 75,000 FCFA
3. Ebongue Emile – 50,000 FCFA
Special Awards
1. Hannah Kone – Youngest Female Player Award (50,000 FCFA)
2. Sitamze Fabien Stéphane – Youngest Male Player Award (50,000 FCFA)
3. Poudjoua Gamba Abigaëlle (Central African Republic) – Kirsan Friendship Prize (50,000 FCFA)
4. Kasongo Olivier (DR Congo) – Passion and Determination Prize (50,000 FCFA)
Revelations of the competition were also awarded. It should be noted that the winners also received kits and gadgets offered by MTN Cameroon, one of the tournament’s official sponsors.
A Collective Achievement
During the closing ceremony, FECADE’s vision bearer, President Benjamin Didier BANLOCK expressed gratitude to all stakeholders whose contributions ensured the tournament’s success. He acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education, administrative authorities, national and international partners, chess clubs, athletes, referees, sponsors, volunteers and the entire FECADE staff.
Their collective efforts transformed the Unity Tournament into a memorable celebration of chess, unity and sporting excellence.
Chess: A Game of Strategy, Discipline and Growth
Beyond competition, chess remains one of the world’s most intellectually stimulating sports. Played on a board of 64 squares by two opponents controlling sixteen pieces each, the game challenges players to combine logic, creativity, patience and foresight in pursuit of victory.
As FECADE continues its mission to develop the sport nationwide, the success of the Unity Tournament stands as another powerful testament to the federation’s vision of building a stronger, more inclusive and internationally competitive chess community in Cameroon.
By FECADE Communications Team
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