Africa Youth Chess Championships Returns to Harare with Continental Show of Talent

Harare hosts the 16th Africa Youth Chess Championships, welcoming 450 young players from 17 countries for nine days of competition (image source)

Harare — The 16th edition of the Africa Youth Chess Championships opened yesterday at Dominican Convent School, drawing more than 450 young players from 17 African countries for nine days of strategic competition and cultural exchange. The event marks the tournament’s first return to Zimbabwe since 2017 and follows months of preparation by the Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF). Federation president Todd Mapingire welcomed the full turnout, commending organisers for delivering a high-standard event under tight timelines.

The championships feature several age groups and formats, with players competing in a Swiss-system structure that rewards consistency across rapid and classical rounds. Beyond medal contention and national rankings, organisers have emphasised the developmental value of the tournament. Coaching clinics, referee seminars and youth outreach programmes are running alongside the games to strengthen grassroots chess and build regional capacity for future events. Visiting coaches and officials are expected to leave lasting improvements in technical skills and training systems.

Dominican Convent School has been transformed into a fully equipped chess venue, complete with playing halls, analysis rooms and hospitality spaces for delegations. Mapingire highlighted the collaboration between the federation, schools, hotels and transport partners to ensure a smooth experience for visiting teams. The event’s return to Harare is also providing a boost to the local economy as hotels, restaurants and vendors benefit from increased activity. Chess officials say the successful hosting of continental tournaments can grow sports tourism and create international pathways for emerging talent.

The ZCF views the championships as a key platform for identifying potential future grandmasters. Talent scouts and national youth coordinators will track performances to guide scholarship considerations and development pipelines. For many participants, the tournament offers a rare opportunity to compete against continental peers and measure progress at a high level. Running until December 14, the championships will spotlight standout performers and contribute to shaping Zimbabwe’s chess landscape for years ahead.