Mr. Dongo, the Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) Social Chess Director, was formally recognised by Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) Commissioner General Dr. Moses Cyril Chihobvu for his exceptional dedication and outstanding contribution to the growth and success of prison chess in Zimbabwe.
The recognition follows Zimbabwe’s remarkable achievements on the continental stage, where the country’s inmate chess teams delivered outstanding performances by winning the Open Section title and securing the Second Runner-Up position in the Ladies’ Section. These accomplishments stand as a testament to the effectiveness of the rehabilitation-through-sport programme and the transformative impact of chess within correctional institutions.
As Social Chess Director, Mr. Dongo has played a pivotal role in expanding access to chess across Zimbabwe’s correctional facilities, nurturing talent, coordinating development programmes, and creating opportunities for inmates to compete at the highest levels. His unwavering commitment has helped position Zimbabwe as one of Africa’s leading nations in correctional chess, demonstrating the power of the game to foster discipline, critical thinking, personal growth, and rehabilitation.
In recognition of these outstanding achievements, Commissioner General Dr. Moses Cyril Chihobvu commended Mr. Dongo for his sterling leadership and tireless efforts in advancing the partnership between the Zimbabwe Chess Federation and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service. The honour reflects not only Mr. Dongo’s personal dedication but also the shared commitment of both institutions to using chess as a powerful tool for empowerment, rehabilitation, and social transformation.
The Zimbabwe Chess Federation congratulates Mr. Dongo on this well-deserved recognition and applauds his continued service to the development of chess. His leadership continues to inspire players, officials, and communities across Zimbabwe while reinforcing the Federation’s vision of making chess accessible to every sector of society.