The Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Miss Kelly Mbondo on being crowned the 2026 Commissioner General Behind the Wall Chess Champion in the Ladies Section at the prestigious tournament held at ZPCS Khami Prison.
Kelly’s victory is a testament to her exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and dedication to the game of chess. Throughout the championship, she demonstrated remarkable composure, strategic brilliance, and consistency, overcoming a strong field of competitors to emerge as the deserving ladies’ champion.
The championship concluded with a colourful prize-giving ceremony attended by senior dignitaries from both the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service and the Zimbabwe Chess Federation. Present to honour the new champion were ZPCS Commissioner General Dr. Moses Cyril Chihobvu and Zimbabwe Chess Federation President Mr. Todd Mapingire, who congratulated Kelly on her impressive achievement and commended all participants for their competitive spirit and sportsmanship.
Kelly Mbondo is no stranger to success on the chessboard. She is a member of the Zimbabwe National Chess Team in the Under-16 Girls category and has consistently distinguished herself as one of the country’s brightest young chess talents. Her latest triumph further reinforces her growing reputation as a player with tremendous potential and a bright future in Zimbabwean chess.
Earlier this year, Kelly proudly represented Zimbabwe at the African Schools Individual Chess Championship in Uganda, where she competed against some of the continent’s strongest junior players. Her participation on the international stage provided invaluable experience and demonstrated her ability to compete at the highest levels of African scholastic chess.
Winning the Commissioner General Behind the Wall Ladies Championship marks another significant milestone in Kelly’s chess journey. It reflects not only her technical ability and competitive mindset but also the hard work, discipline, and commitment she continues to invest in developing her game.
The Zimbabwe Chess Federation is immensely proud of Kelly’s accomplishments and recognises her as one of the young ambassadors driving the growth and success of Zimbabwean chess. Her achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring young girls across the country, proving that dedication, perseverance, and passion can open doors to national and international opportunities.
As Kelly continues her development, the Federation is confident that she will achieve even greater success and remain an important member of Zimbabwe’s national chess programme.
Once again, the Zimbabwe Chess Federation congratulates Kelly Mbondo on being crowned the 2026 Commissioner General Behind the Wall Ladies Chess Champion. We wish her continued success in her chess career and look forward to celebrating many more achievements in the years ahead.
Congratulations, Kelly! Your victory is a proud moment for Zimbabwean chess, and we have no doubt that your journey to even greater heights has only just begun.