Poland in Tanzania

The 1st “Urafiki Gambit” Chess Tournament was organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Dar es Salaam in cooperation with the Jordan University Chess Club. The event brought together players from Tanzania, Poland, Nigeria, Malawi and India, creating an international space for sporting competition and exchange of experience.

The tournament was held under the motto “Two Nations. One Board.” – a symbolic expression of friendship and cooperation built through sport. Both experienced players and young enthusiasts of the royal game met across the boards. The youngest participant, 11-year-old Chael Nouidui, finished in an impressive fifth place overall, receiving a special award and the “Rising Star” distinction.

During the opening ceremony, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Sergiusz Wolski presented the activities of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Tanzania and the current areas of Polish–Tanzanian cooperation, highlighting the importance of cultural, educational and sporting initiatives in bilateral relations. Dr Konrad Czernichowski, Tournament Director, introduced participants to the history of Polish chess and the contribution of Polish masters to the development of the discipline on the international stage.

The tournament was FIDE-rated. The winner was Jordan Boksinski, second place went to Henry Marwa Michael, and third place to Parsa Naser. Special recognitions were also awarded, including the prize for best female player, which went to Prisha Chheda.

The initiative aimed not only to promote chess as a sport with strong educational value, but also to foster intercultural dialogue, strengthen social ties and support youth engagement. “Urafiki Gambit” demonstrated that a chessboard can become a space for encounter, cooperation and mutual respect – beyond the borders of countries and cultures.