The Ghana Chess Association hosted the 13th President’s Cup which is the most prestigious annual chess open in Ghana from August 1 to 3, 2025 at the College of Physicians & Surgeons, Accra, with 33 players of all ages converge from all over the country and beyond to compete for a piece of the mouthwatering prize fund of GHC 12, 000. 

Candidate Master Clinton Cephas Fomevor went undefeated with 5 wins and 2 draws after 7 rounds to lift the championship trophy.

The Final standings (1st–5th): were CM Clinton Cephas Fomevor (GHA) – 6 pts , FM John Kojo Hasford (GHA) – 5½ pts, Nana Kofi Ampong (GHA) – 5 pts), Miracle Morris (GHA) – 5 pts and Kwasi Kporxah Maxwell (GHA) – 4½ pts 

This year’s event featured participants from all over the West African region with representatives from Togo and Nigeria as well as a participant from the United States of America

Women and youth were also visible contenders, with young girls Singh Ridham (Best Female) and Karina Alba Quartey representing the female chess community. Many juniors such as Harry Sarkodee-Addo, Jedidiah Acheampong and Dave Chief Acheampong (Best Junior) demonstrated competitive spirit, affirming the tournament’s multi-generational appeal.

This year’s competition was made possible through generous support from Prof. Richard Adanu of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, which hosted the event and Mr. Rajan Singh of Oceanspray Ghana who provided refreshments

Special thanks also go to Air Commodore George Kweku Arko Dadzie, Ghana’s first FIDE International Arbiter and former President — whose vision and patronage have been foundational in staging the President’s Cup since its inception. 

Edward Sosu, Treasurer of the Ghana Chess Association and long time advocate for financing grassroots chess, once again ensured smooth prize payouts and logistical support. 

The Arbitration & Organizing Team include Tournament Director and Chief Arbiter: IA Christiana Ashley and Deputy Chief Arbiter: Rev Charles Raymond Appiah Tandoh, IO. Their impartial oversight guarantee adherence to FIDE standards and fair play throughout the rapid built tournament schedule.

 “Each year, we strive to make the President’s Cup a model of excellence and inclusivity. I commend the emerging players among this year’s top five for elevating the standard of competition” Said Christiana Ashley, Vice-President & Tournament Director, GCA

Following the success of the 13th edition, the GCA confirms that the President’s Cup will return next year for the 14th edition, with an expanded field and continued partnership with Oceanspray and other corporate sponsors.

Source Ghana Chess Association