- APPRECIATION
The President congratulated all participants, organizers, officials, and the sponsor Minerva on the successful 6th edition of the tournament. He thanked Minerva for their continued support and chronicled the journey traveled together.
Special appreciation was also extended to Kellogg for consistently supporting the development section through free food packs.
The President further thanked the Tournament Director Mr Agab Dozva and the Arbitration Team led by Chief Arbiter IA Chimbamu and his team for their professionalism in officiating the event.
- KEY UPDATES
- Olympiad 2026 Preparation: Preparations are at an advanced stage and currently at visa processing. The Federation received calls for the inclusion of Shepherd, winner of the Minerva Open, into the Olympiad team. The President assured that if there is even a 1% opportunity to field him, ZCF will pursue it.
- Corporate Support: An appeal was made to Minerva and other corporates to consider branding and sponsoring the Zimbabwe Olympiad team attire.
- International Appointments: The President highlighted new opportunities at Zone 4.5 and ACC level where Federation Presidents can nominate arbiters. He announced that FA Mercy Mushangwe has been appointed as an Arbiter at the Main Olympiad, and IA James Vhezha has been appointed to the Appeals Committee of the Paralympics for People Living with Disabilities.
- EXPECTATIONS FOR 2027
The President outlined 6 key strategic priorities for 2027: - National/Provincial Leagues: Establish FIDE-rated national and provincial leagues that are economical for teams and under the direct custodianship of ZCF.
- National Rating System: Develop a national rating system, or partner with existing providers to customize a system for ZCF.
- Coaches Certification System: Launch a database where parents and schools can easily locate certified coaches in their province, with reviews from ZCF.
- Zimbabwe Closed 2027: Introduce the Zimbabwe Closed Chess Championship to give upcoming players a pathway to national level competition.
- Corporate Chess: All ZCF tournaments will include a corporate section. ZCF will introduce a Corporate Chess Championship, with winners representing Zimbabwe at the World Corporate Chess Championship where all expenses are covered by FIDE.
- Cash Prizes: Guarantee that all cash prize winners will receive their full prize money.
ZCF Communications And Public Relations Director
Agab Dozva