HARARE, Sunday 23 August 2026: The Minerva Zim Open reaches its grand finale today at the Heritage Virtual Centre, Tynwald Primary School, with the final Classical round set to determine the champions.
After yesterday’s Round 7 and Round 8 battles, the race has reached its most exciting stage!
OPEN A — KUKUDZAREMA LEADS THE WAY
Shephered Kukudzarema takes a slender lead on 7 points after drawing with IM Gillan Bwalya in Round 8. Bwalya is on 6½, while Augustine Mtonga and Emarald Mushore are both on 6 points.
One final round. One last battle. Minerva Open A is going down to the wire!
OPEN B — MBABVU PERFECT!
What a run! Blessing Mbabvu remains unbeaten and leads the Minerva Open B on a perfect 8/8 after defeating Tafadzwa Mukombedza in Round 8.
Tafadzwa Sibanda follows on 6½, with Knowledge Samboko on 6 points. The chase is on, but Mbabvu has been exceptional.
LADIES — SHABA TAKES COMMAND
WFM Linda Dalitso Shaba has taken control of the Minerva Ladies Section, moving to 7 points after defeating Tatenda Melisa Zengeni in Round 8.
Refiloe Mudodo, Christine Makwena, Colletta Wakuruwarewa, Nomalungelo Mathe and Blessing Amos are all on 6 points, setting up a thrilling final round.
MINERVA GRAND FINALE
The Minerva Development Section continues, while the Minerva Corporate Section is also in action as the entire chess festival builds towards today’s conclusion.
From Open A to Open B, the Ladies, Development and Corporate sections, Minerva has powered a chess festival bringing competition, opportunity, community and regional participation together under one roof.
TODAY, CHAMPIONS RISE AT MINERVA!
MINERVA ZIM OPEN 2026 – Where Champions Rise.