Online Reporter
Online Writer
FRESH from his triumph at the 2026 Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) Easter Open, newly crowned champion Tapiwa Jele has set his sights on the upper levels of global chess, targeting an International Master (IM) title as a stepping stone towards Grandmaster status.
Jele secured the title at the Flamboyant Regency Hotel in Masvingo, coming through a competitive field in a tournament widely regarded as a key event on the national chess calendar.
The victory not only reflects his current form but also secures him a pathway back to the national stage.
Under ZCF selection criteria, the Easter Open serves as a primary qualifying event for Zimbabwe’s national team selection the following year.
Speaking after his victory, Jele emphasised the importance of the win.
“The Easter Open is one of the biggest tournaments because it is part of the events used to select individuals for the Zimbabwe national team next year.
“It is quite a good feeling because it means that I will get a shot to play nationals again next year,” said Jele.
With the domestic title secured, Jele is now shifting his focus towards international recognition.
He revealed plans to compete more frequently in elite tournaments across Africa and beyond to secure the Elo ratings and norms required for FIDE titles.
“Currently, this year my goal is to play a lot of elite tournaments in Africa or outside the continent so that I can at least attain the FIDE Master (FM) title or even the International Master title,” he said.
The Easter Open triumph appears to have boosted Jele’s confidence in his long-term trajectory.
He said achieving international titles would open doors to higher-level competitions where he can test himself against the world’s best.
“This would mean I would also get a chance to compete at the world stage against Grandmasters and maybe become one in the next two or three years,” said Jele.
