Posts from March 2026
ZCF Honors Haigh Park Primary School for Champion Making Chess Program
The Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) presented Haigh Park Primary School with the AYCC trophy in recognition of the school’s successful chess program ,accredited with supporting Talent Nota, Zimbabwe’s sole medalist at the Africa Youth Chess Championship in December 2025. Talent Nota, who is on a ZCF scholarship, trained through the school’s program. ZCF Secretary/Executive Director Tapiwa Gora visited Haigh Park to see firsthand the training methods/and those behind its medal producing strategy, which the federation says could be replicated at…
14-Year-Old Tehillah Makwiranzou Stuns at Nationals with Remarkable Top-Six Finish
At just 14 years of age, Tehillah Makwiranzou has announced herself on the grand stage of Zimbabwean chess in a way few could have imagined. Making her debut at the 2026 National Championships, Tehillah didn’t simply participate, she delivered a performance that has captured the attention of the entire chess community. In a tournament dominated by seasoned and experienced players, Tehillah shattered expectations by becoming one of the youngest participants in the competition’s history. Yet, what followed was even more…
School Scholarship Award for Zimbabwe Only Medalist at the AYCC in December 2025
The Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) has awarded Talent Nota of Haigh Park Primary School a full school scholarship commencing 2026 first term in recognition of her exceptional performance at the Africa Youth Chess Festival held in Harare in December 2025. Talent a female player in Grade 3 at Haigh Park primary school in Harare emerged as the only Zimbabwean medalist at the event.A remarkable achievement that brought pride to the chess community and the nation. What the scholarship covers A…
From Champion to Commander: Tapiwa Gora’s Winning Move Behind the Scenes
Once a National Schools Champion at the height of his playing days, Tapiwa Gora has taken a different, yet equally impactful path within the chess community. Rather than returning to the board for the 2026 Zimbabwe National Chess Championships, Gora embraced the demanding roles of Tournament Director and Team Captain—positions that require precision, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the success of the event. While the competition on the board was fierce, his influence off it proved just as vital.…
Farai Hamandishe Makes a Memorable Debut with Nine Hard-Fought Draws at the 2026 Nationals
Meet Farai Hamandishe, a standout newcomer who made headlines with a remarkable debut at the 2026 Zimbabwe National Chess Championships. In a tournament where every point is fiercely contested, Farai carved out his own unique story—registering an impressive nine draws against strong opposition. While wins often steal the spotlight, his performance is a testament to resilience, defensive skill, and the ability to hold his ground under pressure. Earning even a single point at Nationals is no small feat, and Farai’s…
Prosper Matyire: Zimbabwe’s 16-Year-Old Chess Sensation Turning Heads at the 2026 Nationals
Meet Prosper Matyire, the 16-year-old rising star who captured attention as the youngest participant at the 2026 Zimbabwe National Open Chess Championships. Far from just making up the numbers, Prosper announced his presence with confidence and flair, proving that age is no barrier to competing at the highest level. His fearless approach and sharp understanding of the game have quickly made him one of the most exciting young talents to watch on the Zimbabwean chess scene. Across the tournament halls,…
Women Take the Lead: Over 80 Gather for Inspiring Chess Tournament in Celebration of Women’s Month
More than 80 women chess enthusiasts gathered at the iconic Dominican Convent School for a vibrant and inspiring Women’s Chess Tournament held in celebration of Women’s Month. The event was further elevated by the presence of Dana Reizniece-Ozola, who graced the occasion as the esteemed Guest of Honor. The tournament brought together players of varying skill levels, united by a shared passion for chess and a commitment to breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport. The atmosphere was electric, filled…
A message for the 2026 Zimbabwe National chess championship Participants
Whether you secured a spot in the top three medalist or not, remember that every game played and every challenge faced enriches your growth as a player. True success goes beyond trophies; it lies in your dedication, resilience, and passion for the game. Each move you made during the tournament is a valuable step in your journey. Use this experience to ignite your determination and enhance your skills. Looking forward, there’s even more reason to stay inspired! The selection for…
Christine Makwena Triumphs as 2026 Zimbabwe National Women’s Chess Champion
Congratulations to Christine Makwena on her outstanding achievement of being crowned the Zimbabwe National Women’s Chess Champion for 2026. With determination, resilience, and impressive tactical awareness, Makwena rose above a strong field of competitors to claim the ազգային title. Throughout the tournament, she displayed consistency and composure under pressure, converting critical positions into victories and proving her strength at the highest level of women’s chess in Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwe National Women’s Chess Championship continues to serve as a vital platform…
Roy Mwadzura Crowned 2026 Zimbabwe National Open Chess Champion in Commanding Style
Congratulations to Roy Mwadzura on being crowned the Zimbabwe National Open Chess Champion for 2026, a remarkable achievement that further cements his place among the country’s elite chess players. Demonstrating exceptional skill, composure, and strategic brilliance throughout the tournament, Mwadzura outplayed a highly competitive field to emerge as the nation’s top player. His performance was marked by sharp preparation, precise calculation, and the calm confidence expected of a seasoned FIDE Master. The Zimbabwe National Open Chess Championship once again proved…
FIDE Deputy Chair Dana Reizniece-Ozola’s Landmark Visit Sparks Momentum for Chess in Education in Zimbabwe
FIDE Deputy Chair and Woman Grandmaster Dana Reizniece-Ozola arrived in Zimbabwe for an impactful two day working visit aimed at promoting chess in education. As she stepped off the plane, she was greeted with warmth and enthusiasm by a welcoming committee that included the President of the Zimbabwe Chess , Todd Mapingire, Treasurer Dr. Mercy Mushangwe and Woman International Master Anzel Laubscher. On her first day, Dana met with the Hon. Professor Torerai Moyo, the Minister of Primary and Secondary…
ZCF Expands Grassroots Development with National Arbiter Seminar in Matabeleland South
The Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) is proud to announce the successful commencement of the National Arbiter Seminar in Matabeleland South Province, marking yet another significant step in strengthening chess development at grassroots level. The two-day seminar is being hosted at Manama High School, a venue that has become a vibrant hub of learning and growth for aspiring and existing arbiters in the province. Participants are engaging in intensive training sessions designed to enhance their understanding of chess rules, tournament management,…
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