Online Reporter
Tendai Chara
Zimpapers Sports Hub
In a clear message that competitive chess belongs to every region of the country, the Zimbabwe Chess Federation has announced that the Zimbabwe Easter Open Chess Tournament – one of the nation’s most anticipated annual events – will be held in Masvingo.
Attracting players across a wide spectrum— national masters, promising juniors, ambitious club players and enthusiastic amateurs — the tournament will run from April 3 to 6.
Zambia’s Gillian Bwalya, the men’s defending champion, will be around as he seeks to add another feather to his cap.
The men’s champion will walk away with US$400, with the ladies’ champion pocketing US$300.
Jeremiah Moyana, the tournament director, spoke about the importance of the tournament.
“This is not an ordinary tournament. It is a meeting point for coaching, talent identification, social connection and the promotion of chess as a tool for sport and education.”
Moyana hailed the Zimbabwe Chess Federation for decentralising the sport.
“For years, top-level chess activity in Zimbabwe has been concentrated in Harare and Bulawayo.
“We welcome the federation’s recent push to strengthen grassroot structures and take tournaments to smaller cities and towns,” Moyana said.
In 2025, 65 players took part in the tournament, with a lot more expected this year.
