Chess Club for Kids Thriving in Refugee Camp Amid Humanitarian Crisis in Eastern Congo

In the midst of one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, a chess club for kids is thriving in a refugee camp in eastern Congo. Despite the challenges of displacement, conflict, and loss, the Soga Chess Club is providing a therapeutic escape for children who have experienced unimaginable trauma.

In a corner of a refugee camp in conflict-ridden eastern Congo, children gather around makeshift chess boards, their eyes bright and focused on the game in front of them. The club, founded by dedicated instructors like Gabriel Nzaji, aims to give these children a sense of calm and focus amidst the chaos they have endured.

With over 5 million people displaced by decades of conflict in eastern Congo, the need for activities like chess to provide a sense of normalcy and mental stimulation is crucial. The club has around 100 children signed up, with each child finding solace and relaxation in the game.

For children like 9-year-old Heritier, chess has become a source of joy and relaxation. Despite the challenges they face living in displacement camps, the organizers of the Soga Chess Club see a glimmer of hope in the children’s newfound passion for the game.

The club not only provides a safe space for children to play and learn but also offers a sense of pride and accomplishment for parents like Feza Twambaze, whose daughter Arusi recently won a tournament. The impact of the club extends beyond the children, bringing joy and hope to families who have endured so much.

As the children in the Soga Chess Club continue to learn and grow through the game, the organizers hope to expand their reach to more children in need, offering a beacon of light in the midst of darkness.