Online Reporter
Tendai Chara
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) has named the finalists for the 2026 Zimbabwe National Chess Championships, setting up a high pressure showdown that will shape the country’s next national team.
The championships remain Zimbabwe’s biggest chess event, pulling together the top rated players in the country and the next wave pushing for recognition, titles and international selection.
ZCF said the finalists came through a tough qualification route, with selection influenced by form and national ranking, meaning there was little room for sentiment when the final cut was made.
The list includes proven winners from last season, featuring the 2025 CBZ National champions and runners up, the 2025 CABS Candidates winners, as well as the 2025 Minerva Zim Open champions, giving the 2026 finals a mix of established names and rising contenders.
Beyond the trophies, the 2026 championships carry real consequences because they will act as a key selection platform for Zimbabwe’s international assignments, including the 46th Chess Olympiad set for Uzbekistan in September 2026 and a series of African Individual Championships later in the year.
ZCF president Todd Mapingire said the final selection was one of the toughest the federation has handled, a reflection of how competitive the local game has become.
“The level of competition in Zimbabwean chess has never been this higher. Competition for the limited slots was very high,” Mapingire said.
In the Open Section, the finalists are Tapiwa Jele, International Master Rodwell Makoto, Vitalis Mapuranga, Alms Muchengedzero, Tanaka Katsande, FIDE Master Roy Mwadzura, Emarald Mushore, Farai Hamandishe, Prosper Matyire and Bright Moyo.
The Open Section reserves are Terrence Mureya, Kenneth Ruchaka and Castro Sibanda, names that could still be called in if there are withdrawals or eligibility changes before the finals.
In the Ladies Section, the finalists are Christine Makwena, Woman FIDE Master Linda Shaba, Colletta Wakuruwarewa, Tanaka Dziyanyi, Woman Candidate Master Kudzanayi Charinda, Woman Candidate Master Refiloe Mudodo, Nomalungelo Mathe, Tatenda Ndou, Carol Ndlovu and Grace Zvarebwa.
The Ladies Section reserves are Amos Blessing, Tehillah Makwiranzou and Matifadzashe Mhungu, completing the final shortlist for a championship that now doubles as a national team audition.
