Online Reporter
Tendai Chara
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Zimbabwe Chess Federation yesterday unveiled a 20-member national youth squad that will represent the country at the 17th edition of the Africa Youth Chess Championship.
The continental show-piece will be held at the Imperial Botanical Beach Hotel in Entebbe, Uganda, running from May 14 to May 23.
Zimbabwe’s touring party was selected following the Zimbabwe Cadets and Youth Chess Championships, held in February.
More than 230 young hopefuls took part in the fiercely competitive selection process.
From that large field, the selectors identified players who consistently demonstrated strong technique, tactical awareness, and the mental discipline required for international chess.
The final squad is made of different ages — from the promising Under-8s to the experienced Under-18s — reflecting Zimbabwe’s growing depth in youth development.
Several stand-out performers earned their places and are expected to play key roles for Team Zimbabwe at AYCC.
For the Under 18 boys and girls’ category, Allen Tungamira and Carol Ndhlovu dominated the top age group during the national qualifiers. Both players arrive in Uganda with strong expectations for continental success.
For the under-16s, Kelly Mbondo, a rising star after securing national victory in the qualifiers, will be one of Zimbabwe’s key hopes in this division.
Faith Mutinha and Mukundi Mukono secured victories in the Under-14 division at the national level and will aim to carry that same form against Africa’s elite youth.
Anotida Mukono and Purity Dyora will represent the country in the Under-12 age group, with Taonanyasha Chimboza and Matipa Manyoni competing in the Under-10 category.
In the Under-8 division, Michael Chikovere, Shalom Austin, and Sheila Karidza will be looking to lift the national flag high by winning crucial games.
Benson Magomo, head of delegation, praised the team’s preparation, noting that the athletes demonstrated discipline and tactical maturity during the selection stage.
“Our athletes have shown remarkable composure and tactical awareness throughout the selection process,” Magomo said.
“I am confident that some of the players are going to do the nation proud.”
Zimbabwean chess has been performing strongly after the successful hosting of the previous edition in December 2025.
This year’s delegation is determined to build on that momentum and deliver strong results against competitors from more than 35 African nations.
At the championship, Zimbabwe’s team will compete in classical, rapid, and blitz formats—disciplines that test deep calculation, speed, accuracy, and adaptability.
Ultimately, the ZCF’s goals go beyond medal hopes, with the federation also targeting internationally recognised titles, including FIDE Master (FM) and Candidate Master (CM).
As the countdown to Entebbe continues, Zimbabwe’s youth players are set to step onto the continental stage with focus, ambition, and the confidence of a team fully prepared for battle.
