School sweeps top honours in boys’ and girls’ chess categories
Khomo-li-ileng primary dominates 2025 Juniors’ Chess Tournament as federation pushes for nationwide chess growth
SEBONGILE MATHE
MASERU – Khomo-li-ileng Primary School made history at the 2025 Thaba-Tseka Juniors Chess Tournament, held on May 17 at Paray Primary School, by clinching gold in both the boys’ and girls’ categories.
The event, organized by the Chess Federation of Lesotho (CFL), brought together six schools from surrounding districts – Khomo-li-ileng, Paray, Mohlakeng, Katlehong, Thaba-Tseka, and Majara Primary Schools – showcasing the rising talent in youth chess.
In the Boys’ Category, Khomo-li-ileng claimed 1st place (trophy and gold medals), followed by Paray Primary (silver) and Mohlakeng Primary (bronze). In the Girls’ Category Khomo-li-ileng repeated its triumph, securing another gold, while Paray took silver and Mohlakeng bronze.
Selatela Khiba, the federation’s Public Relations Officer, emphasized that such tournaments aim to popularize chess across Lesotho, with a goal of engaging every school.
Our focus is on building robust school chess programmes to identify and nurture young talent,” he stated. With countless schools nationwide, Khiba believes this grassroots approach is key to developing future champions who could represent Lesotho internationally.
Khiba outlined the CFL’s threefold mission as hinged on academic enhancement aimed at boosting critical thinking and concentration through chess. Secondly, opportunity creation meant for networking and scholarship avenues for players as well as national pride to build a competitive team for global tournaments.
“These events are more than competitions – they are platforms for skill development, strategic thinking, and lifelong opportunities,” he added.
The federation’s long-term vision integrates cognitive development, youth empowerment, and international representation, ensuring chess leaves a lasting impact on the country’s youth.
