Harare, Zimbabwe — The Zimbabwe Chess Federation has taken another significant step toward the modernization and development of chess in Zimbabwe following the official signing ceremony of the Licensing and Collaboration Agreement for the Elite National Chess Rating (ENCR) System with Elite Chess Club.
The agreement was formally signed by Todd Mapingire, President of the Zimbabwe Chess Federation, and Tapiwa Konga, President of Elite Chess Club, during a ceremony held in Harare.
The ENCR System is a national chess rating initiative designed to strengthen tournament administration, player rating management, and the overall competitiveness of Zimbabwean chess through a structured and transparent local rating framework.
The signing of the agreement has been widely viewed as a reflection of the Zimbabwe Chess Federation’s continued commitment to innovation, institutional growth, and the long-term development of chess in the country under the leadership of Mr Todd Mapingire.
Since assuming office, Mr Mapingire has consistently emphasized modernization, strategic partnerships, and sustainable grassroots development as key pillars for advancing Zimbabwean chess. The ENCR collaboration is expected to complement these broader developmental objectives while creating more opportunities for players, arbiters, organizers, schools, academies, and clubs across the country.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Mr Mapingire described the agreement as an important milestone in strengthening the structures that support competitive chess in Zimbabwe.
“This agreement represents progress for Zimbabwean chess. As a federation, we remain committed to initiatives that improve organizations, player development, and participation throughout the country. The ENCR System aligns with our vision of building stronger and more sustainable chess structures for present and future generations,” said Mr Mapingire.
The initiative also aligns with broader national development aspirations that encourage innovation, youth empowerment, digital transformation, and the growth of sporting institutions capable of creating opportunities for young people.
Lawrence Tavagwisa, Secretary of Elite Chess Club and one of the developers and administrators of the ENCR System, praised the Zimbabwe Chess Federation for embracing collaboration and progressive development within the chess sector.
“We are honored by the confidence and support shown by the Zimbabwe Chess Federation under the leadership of President Todd Mapingire. This partnership is not only a major milestone for the ENCR project, but also an important step toward building a more organized, data-driven, and development-focused chess environment in Zimbabwe,” said Tavagwisa.
He added that the ENCR System was designed to support local chess growth by improving rating accessibility, tournament tracking, and player development pathways.
The agreement establishes a formal framework for cooperation between the Zimbabwe Chess Federation and Elite Chess Club in the promotion, implementation, and management of the ENCR System. The partnership is expected to contribute significantly to the continued professionalization and expansion of chess activities throughout Zimbabwe.
Further details regarding the working structures, ratings and rankings as well as future ENCR-related programs can be found on the official ratings website: rating.elitechess.co.zw