Online Reporter
Tendai Chara
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwean team that took part in the recently concluded World Chess Olympiad made the nation proud, recording unexpected victories and achieving significant personal milestones.
Three players were awarded titles following impressive performances, with Emerald Mushore attaining the prestigious FIDE Master (FM) title after securing six victories in nine games for the national team.
Carol Ndlovu also enjoyed a fine outing, earning the WFM conditional title, while Tapiwa Jele attained the Candidate Master (CM) title.
Beyond the players’ individual achievements, Zimbabwe Chess also received international recognition after being honoured with the prestigious Kick-Starter Award at the 2026 FIDE Year of Chess in Education Awards.
The award recognises the country’s progress and commitment to promoting and expanding Chess in Education (CIE).
The award was presented to Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) president Todd Mapingire by FIDE deputy president Viswanathan Anand and FIDE Management Board chairperson Dana Reizniece-Ozola on behalf of the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
Only eight Kick-Starter Awards were presented globally, making Zimbabwe’s recognition particularly significant.
Zimbabwe was also the only African country to receive the award, underlining the international recognition of the country’s efforts to integrate chess into the education system.
The achievement follows growing collaboration between the Zimbabwe Chess Federation and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, whose joint efforts to expand chess in schools have attracted the attention of the international chess governing body.
Mapingire was delighted with the players’ performances in Uzbekistan. “For me, this was the most successful Olympiad that we have so far participated in.
Three players earned themselves titles and the federation got an award. “I am humbled by these unexpected results,” a beaming Mapingire said.
