Zimbabwe Chess 2025–2026: A Year of Growth, Competition and Opportunity
Chess in Zimbabwe has continued to make important strides across local and international stages. From hosting a major continental youth championship to strong participation in national tournaments and a packed calendar of events from the Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF), the game is thriving and evolving. Here’s a look back at the key developments from late 2025 into 2026.
Zimbabwe Hosts the 16th African Youth Chess Championship
In December 2025, Zimbabwe had the honour of hosting the 16th African Youth Chess Championship (AYCC) in Harare. The event took place from 6–14 December and brought together more than 500 young competitors from 18 countries across Africa, making it one of the largest editions of the tournament in recent history. Players competed in multiple age categories, from Under-8 to Under-18, in a Swiss-system format that highlighted both skill and sportsmanship.
This championship not only showcased the rising talent from across the continent but also demonstrated Zimbabwe’s capacity to host large and complex chess events, reinforcing the country’s role as a key supporter of youth chess development.
National and Open Tournaments — Competitive Roads for Local Players
Minerva Zimbabwe Open Chess Tournament
The Minerva Zimbabwe Open remains one of Zimbabwe’s most significant open events. Held from 20–24 August 2025 at Joina City in Harare, the tournament returned with strong participation from both local and regional players. This event — supported by long-term sponsors Minerva Risk Advisors — offered a high level of competition and provided players with valuable rated games and experience.
2025 CBZ National Chess Championship
Earlier in the year, the 2025 CBZ National Chess Championship crowned its champions, with Tapiwa Jele becoming the first Bulawayo player to win the Open title after a competitive final in Harare. Jele’s victory marked an impressive milestone in national competition and reflected the growing strength of players from outside the capital.
In addition to the open section, the ladies’ category saw strong performances and highlighted the steady progress of female participation at top levels of the game.
What ZCF Has Been Doing in 2026
The Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) has maintained an active calendar into 2026, focusing on both competitive and developmental chess across the country. Among the key initiatives:
- ZCF Cadet and Youth Championships 2026 — events aimed at supporting young competitive players.
- Midlands U18 Junior Championship — regional competition to foster junior talent.
- Crystal Candy District Phase Schools Chess League — building up to the 2026 National Schools Team Chess Championship with organised schools participation.
- Easter Open 2026 — a planned open competition later in the year.
- Announcement of participants for the 2026 National Chess Championships — drawing top talent from qualifying events including national opens and regional competitions.
Through these events, ZCF continues to provide platforms for players at all levels to compete, improve and showcase their skills.
Looking Ahead
The momentum from the 2025 calendar especially with hosting the African Youth Chess Championship — carries strong implications for 2026 and beyond. Zimbabwe’s strategic focus on youth development, national championships, and continued collaboration with sponsors and international federations sets a promising stage for growth in the game.
With more tournaments, broader participation, and a forward-thinking federation structure, players across the country are poised for opportunities both locally and on the continental stage.
Final Thoughts
From major international youth events to local national titles and an active calendar of ZCF initiatives, this period has reinforced chess as a vibrant and growing sport in Zimbabwe. Whether you are a competitive player, a coach, a school chess organiser, or a chess enthusiast, there are more opportunities than ever to play, learn and contribute to the growth of chess in the nation.
Stay tuned to ZimChess for ongoing coverage of results, player highlights, and event announcements through 2026 and beyond.