A proud sports moment for Malawians, after 9-year-old Alipo Namangale earned a Conditional Candidate Master (CM) title at the recently concluded Africa Schools’ Individual Chess Championship held in Mombasa, Kenya.
Alipo, who represented Dadaz Chess Academy, and coached online by Coach George Mwale, made history by becoming the youngest Malawian ever to receive this international recognition, marking the first official step toward becoming a chess grandmaster.
Despite losing his final round game to Kenyan opponent, Jean Christopher Mugisha, Alipo finished the tournament with an impressive six points from nine games, placing 20th out of 150 players in his category. Though he missed out on a medal, unlike last year where he clinched a bronze medal in the under-9 category, his remarkable performance still made headlines.
“I’m happy with my performance. I didn’t win a medal this time, but I’ve learned a lot and I’m looking forward to winning gold in the future,” said Alipo upon arrival at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe, where he was warmly welcomed by family members and supporters.
Alipo’s standout victory over Kenyan player Adrian Kiprotich earlier in the tournament was one of the highlights of his journey. His discipline, sharp thinking, and calmness under pressure earned him the conditional CM title, sparking excitement across Malawi’s chess community.
Officials from Dadaz Chess Academy described Alipo’s achievement as a big win for Malawi and a sign of what young talent can achieve when properly mentored and supported.
Now, Alipo has his eyes set on the World Schools Team Chess Championship, set for August in Washington, D.C., USA, where he will compete alongside fellow young Malawian chess players.
“I am looking forward to more international tournaments in Africa and beyond so I can keep improving and become the best,” said Alipo with confidence.
