BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) is entering a new phase of development following its recent Annual General Meeting (AGM), with officials highlighting plans to expand the sport while acknowledging ongoing challenges.
Former president Anthony Maelasi confirmed that a new executive has taken over leadership of the federation, with a formal handover scheduled in the coming days.
“We had an election and we now have a new executive board for the federation.
“Next weekend we will be doing a handing over… and from there, they are going to have a plan for several tournaments,” Maelasi said.
He added that the transition comes at a crucial time, with discussions already underway with regional bodies regarding potential funding opportunities.
“One of the Oceania Chess Federation chairmen has linked up with me… to update us on some funds that could be available that we can apply for,” he said.
Despite the leadership change, Maelasi assured that key national events will continue, including the annual Sir Peter Kenilorea Chess Championship held around Independence Day on July 7.
Meanwhile, SICF Technical Officer James Samu outlined the federation’s broader development agenda, focusing on tournaments, training and provincial expansion.
“For this year, we have a calendar that outlines all the programs expected to happen under the federation.
“The three main ones are tournaments, development training, and encouraging provinces to establish chess associations,” Samu said.
He revealed that the federation aims to introduce new competitions such as a Honiara-based chess league, while continuing its annual championship.
Samu also highlighted growing interest in the sport, with over 100 players currently registered under the international chess body.
“We have just about above a hundred registered players… some are rated, some are just registered as FIDE players,” he said.
He also acknowledged key challenges affecting the sport’s growth, particularly limited resources and funding.
“One is the lack of right equipment to use in tournaments… most of the things that we have are outdated.
“We also need exposure for our players to compete internationally,” Samu said.
He stressed that financial constraints have prevented Solomon Islands from participating in regional and global tournaments, despite the presence of talented players.
“We have a lot of talented players… but we need them to be exposed,” he added.
Looking ahead, the federation is also prioritising the introduction of chess in schools and the establishment of provincial associations, with Malaita currently the only province with an active body.
Samu encourages players and supporters to continue engaging in the sport.
“Chess is a very fun game in our mental growth… it helps you to be a strategic thinker,” he said.
The SICF was established in the late 2000s and has since been working to promote chess across the country, with renewed efforts now expected under its new leadership.
Photo: Supplied
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