THE newly-established chess club at Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) held its inaugural tournament in Dar es Salaam last weekend.

The showdown attracted enthusiastic participation of students who showcased the growing interest in chess among Tanzania’s youths.

According to one of the tournament organizers and founders of MUHAS Chess Club, Lissa Joseph, the event was held at the campus and saw many students deeply focused as they navigated strategic battles across the board.

Lissa, also a MUHAS student, is a passionate chess player who recently made headlines by finishing as the first runner-up in the Tanzania National Chess Championship.

“I wanted to bring the same spirit of competition and critical thinking I experienced during the national championship to our university,” Lissa revealed.

Lissa pointed out that the inaugural tournament is just a beginning, stressing that they hope to build a strong chess culture at MUHAS.

Participants praised the initiative, highlighting how chess not only provides a mental challenge but also offers a refreshing balance to the demanding academic environment of a health sciences institution.

Mussa Mangula, the Tanzania Chess Association (TACA) information officer, insisted that any of the chess enthusiasts interested in opening clubs for the game are welcome.

He disclosed that the interested enthusiast will be supported by TACA accordingly for the betterment of chess in Tanzania.

Mangula noted: “We want the game of chess to be played at all learning centers, starting from primary schools, secondary schools, to higher learning institutions.”

He added: “Chess is a game which helps in strategic thinking and analysis. TACA will make sure that our goal is achieved and provide support,” he said.

He said the success of the event signals promising growth for chess within Tanzanian universities and reflects the increasing involvement of young players, particularly women, in the national chess scene.

With students like Lissa taking the lead, the MUHAS Chess Club is poised to become a vibrant hub for nurturing the next generation of chess talent in the country.