Gobabis Grand Prix Showcases Rising Stars and Fierce Competition in Namibian Chess

Gobabis Grand Prix Showcases Rising Stars and Fierce Competition in Namibian Chess. Gobabis hosted the eighth leg of the Bank Windhoek Grand Prix chess series on Saturday, June 21, 2025, turning the Omaheke Regional Library into a battleground of strategy, skill, and sportsmanship. A total of 55 players from across Namibia competed in the high-stakes tournament, drawing top contenders and emerging talent from various regions.

The tournament carried significant weight, offering players critical Grand Prix points to boost their national rankings. According to Namibia Chess Federation President Berdian Beukes, the event was a key milestone in the Grand Prix calendar and a boost for chess development in the Omaheke region.

Uatiavi Jossy Uapingene emerged victorious, with his only loss to Arena Candidate Master Lazarus Shatipamba, who placed third. Candidate Master McLean Handjaba secured second place, rounding out a fiercely competitive podium.

In the Women’s Section, Linekela Itembu claimed first place with 5/7. National team player Tjatindi Kamutuua followed with 3.5/7, and Tuyama Muundjua earned third with 3/7—complementing her brother Henry Muundjua’s win as Best Youth Player with a standout 6/7.

Cadet standout Tanatswanashe Katsvara impressed with a 4/7 score. Meanwhile, Kazembire Tjiveta continued his dominance on home ground, winning the Best Local Prize for a fourth consecutive year.

A special moment came from mother-son pair Stacey Kamundu and seven-year-old Kaunatjike Uongeevandu, both finishing with commendable scores—Kaunatjike narrowly outscoring his mother.