The Cameroon Chess Federation (FECADE) has launched an ambitious new chapter under the leadership of Benjamin Didier Banlock, whose early months in office have already signalled a renewed push to develop and professionalize chess across the country.
Just two months after his election as FECADE president, Banlock successfully oversaw the launch of the federation's 2026 sporting season and a major Unity Tournament in Yaoundé, bringing together players, officials, and representatives from several African countries.
The event, held at the Yaoundé Multipurpose Sports Complex, was presided over by Dieudonné Mbarga, representative of the Minister of Sports and Physical Education. He praised the organization of the tournament, describing it as being of international standard and reflective of a new vision for the federation.
The ceremony attracted high-profile guests, including Senator Seidou Mbombo Njoya, ANAFOOT Director Carl Enow Ngachu, and presidents of chess federations from Gabon, Burundi, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Central African Republic.
Six African federations were represented at the event, underlining growing regional interest in Cameroon's chess development. More than 120 players participated in the Unity Tournament, including 35 FIDE-rated competitors. The competition featured categories for Open, Women, Cadets, and Veterans, with players competing for ranking points, prize money, and honours.
Noumbo Guepi Vidal emerged as the champion in the Open category, while Ngo Sohna Carole won the Women's title. Their victories highlighted the growing level of competition within Cameroonian chess and the emergence of a new generation of talent.
For Banlock, however, the tournament represented more than a sporting event. It served as a statement of intent for a federation seeking to move beyond years of limited visibility and growth. "We want to make things happen. We want to go places," Banlock said. "We want to bring a new perspective to sports and a different way of respecting athletes and practitioners of chess."
Central to his strategy is improving governance and attracting partners capable of supporting the federation's long-term ambitions. Shortly after taking office, Banlock travelled to Russia, where he secured a technical cooperation agreement with Moscow's chess authorities to strengthen development opportunities for Cameroonian players.
The former Secretary General of the Cameroon Football Federation believes the country possesses significant untapped chess talent. He cites Cameroon's success in international competitions and the achievements of young players as evidence that the sport deserves greater investment and attention.
A former national player himself, Banlock represented Cameroon at the Chess Olympiads in 2010 and 2018 and previously served as an adviser to former FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov. His experience in sports administration spans more than three decades.
Looking ahead, FECADE plans to expand chess beyond its traditional centres of Yaoundé and Douala through nationwide outreach programs, with schools and universities expected to play a central role in the federation's development strategy.
Despite currently having only nine registered clubs, federation officials believe participation will grow rapidly under the new administration.
Banlock's ultimate objective is to build a financially sustainable federation, create opportunities for young players, and establish Cameroon as a leading chess nation in Africa. For many observers, the successful launch of the 2026 season suggests that Cameroon's chess may finally be entering a period of renewal under his leadership.
@Laarry Times
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