WIM Jesse Nikki February made history by winning in the African Individual Chess Championship women category, becoming the first South African female to win it twice, following in the footsteps of WGM Melissa Greeff in 2009 and GM Kenneth Solomon in 2014. She also holds the distinction of being the first player from Zone 4.5 in Southern Africa to achieve this feat twice, solidifying her status as a formidable force in African chess.
On the 20th of March 2024, South Africa’s WIM Jesse February claimed victory in the women’s section of the 2024 African Individual Chess Championship. Her outstanding performance earned her 7.5 points out of a possible nine, securing her the championship title. During the tournament, February showcased her skills by defeating top players like WGM Shahenda Wafa and defending champion WIM Nassr Lina in rounds three and four. Despite facing a setback with a loss against 12-year-old Deborah Ebimobo-ere Quickpen from Nigeria in round seven, she finished strong with a draw against Haile Lidet.
