Kijiji Solutions in Nairobi creates chess sets from recycled plastic for Kibera kids
In Nairobi’s Kibera informal settlement, Kijiji Solutions has recycled about 200 kg of plastic waste to produce nearly 2,000 chess sets. Partnering with The Gift of Chess, they provide children with access to chess, improving concentration and problem-solving. The project highlights recycling and educational benefits in a low-income area.
Brève Publié le (Africa/Lagos, UTC+1)
Kijiji Solutions, a community project in Nairobi’s Kibera informal settlement, has recycled approximately 200 kilograms of plastic waste to produce nearly 2,000 tournament-quality chess sets. These sets are distributed to children who otherwise could not afford them, in partnership with The Gift of Chess.
Founder Richard Haukom explains that the plastic waste is collected, sorted, and processed into pellets, which are then molded into chess pieces using custom-made extruders in Nairobi. While the amount of plastic recycled is symbolic rather than a large-scale solution to waste, the project meets local demand for chess equipment.
Chess teacher Ian Ombati highlights that the game offers children an escape from daily hardships and allows competition based on skill rather than background. At the Centre of Hope School in Kibera, students regularly use the recycled chess sets, with teachers noting improvements in concentration, problem-solving, leadership, and academic performance, although no formal studies have been conducted locally.
Eleven-year-old Esther Mutua and nine-year-old Markham Odhiambo report that chess training has helped them improve academically, especially in mathematics. The school considers chess an important part of its curriculum, fostering attentiveness and focus among students.