Wenslus Murape
Monalisa John, Sports Reporter
BARELY a month after doing well at the Olympiad, Zimbabwe’s Chess team will take part in the annual Online Intercontinental Inmates Championships next week.
The championships are set for October 8-11.
The inmates, who are from across all the prisons and correctional centers in the country, will converge at Chikurubi Maximum Prison.
Preparations are on course for the event which is organised by the Zimbabwe Chess Federation in partnership with the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service.
It is supported by Minerva Risk Advisors.
ZPCS Deputy Commissioner Generals – Social Ndanga and Shepherd Mpofu – recently visited Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison to assess the teams’ readiness.
The officials highlighted the significance of this initiative, which offers inmates a rare opportunity to showcase their talents on the international scene.
“This tournament is giving inmates a platform to represent Zimbabwe globally and we will ensure they are well-prepared for the competition.
“Chess has the potential to help inmates make more calculated choices in their lives.
“Participating in tournaments such as the Online Intercontinental Chess Championships for Prisoners goes a long way in rehabilitating some inmates, “ said Deputy Commissioner General Ndanga.
Mathew Masinge