The Cameroon Chess Federation (FECADE) has launched its 2026 sporting season in grand style, signaling what many observers describe as the beginning of a new era for chess in the country under the leadership of its recently elected president, Benjamin Didier Banlock.
Held at the Yaounde Multipurpose Sports Complex, the season launch and Unity Tournament brought together players, officials, and guests from Cameroon and across Africa. The event was presided over by Dieudonné Mbarga, Pedagogical Inspector of Physical Education, who represented the Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Prof. Narcisse Mouelle Kombi.
A colourful opening ceremony featuring a parade of participants, reigning champions and chess clubs highlighted the federation’s renewed ambition. Praising the organisation of the event, Mbarga said FECADE was operating at international standards and commended Banlock’s vision for the discipline.
“We believe that, with the momentum provided by the new president, chess will reach new heights,” Mbarga said while reaffirming government support for the federation.
The Unity Tournament attracted about 120 competitors, including players from six African countries and 35 FIDE Elo-rated elite participants. Contestants battled in the Open Mixed, Women’s, Cadet and Veteran categories.
Noumbo Guepi Vidal emerged champion in the Open Mixed category, earning FCFA 250,000. In the Women’s category, Ngo Sohna Carole claimed first place and received FCFA 150,000. Other winners included Kamga Fondjo in the Cadet category and Bongo Akanga Barthélémy in the Veteran division.
Speaking after her victory, Ngo Sohna Carole encouraged more women to embrace chess, stressing that the game is open to everyone regardless of gender.
Elected on April 11, 2026, Banlock has wasted little time implementing reforms aimed at revitalising a sport that has struggled for visibility since its introduction in Cameroon 14 years ago. The former Secretary General of the Cameroon Football Federation has pledged to strengthen administration, attract sponsors, expand chess to more regions and develop young talent.
“We want to make things happen. We want to go places” Banlock declared. “We want to bring a new perspective to sports, and a different way of respecting athletes and practitioners of chess”.
The new FECADE president is however aware that for change to happen, the methodology must change.
“We need to be administratively efficient, to show and send good signals that can attract partners and sponsors who would support this new vision,” Banlock added.
With plans for a nationwide chess tour and increased focus on schools and universities, FECADE’s new leadership hopes to transform Cameroon into a major force on the African and global chess scene.
