Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE is putting the final touches on preparations for the African Youth Chess Championship (AYCC).
It will be held across, at least three venues, in Harare from December 6 to 14.
The prestigious event, one of the continent’s biggest youth chess tournaments, returns to Zimbabwe for the second time after the successful 2017 edition.Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) president Todd Mapingire said the country is ready to host another world class tournament with at least 2,000 delegates including players, officials, and administrators, expected to converge in the capital.
“We are honoured and proud to have been entrusted with hosting the 2025 Africa Youth Chess Championship and believe that this is a major milestone for Zimbabwean chess.
“It is also an indication of the growing confidence in the ZCF’s organisational capacity and in Zimbabwe as a safe and credible host nation,” said Mapingire.
He said between 25 and 35 African countries have confirmed participation, with Zimbabwe fielding a large contingent. “We could go beyond 2,000 participants,” he added.
“It is a privilege for Zimbabwe to actually be hosting this event which also serves as a qualifier for the World Cup.
“This shows the confidence that our counterparts have in the country’s resources and human capital that we have showcased on the continent of Africa that we can host tournaments of this magnitude and also showcase that Zimbabwe is a safe destination for tourism and for sportspersons. “More importantly, the winners of this tournament get automatic entry to participate in the Chess World Cup next year,” said Mapingire.Adding to the excitement, the African Chess Confederation Conference will run alongside the AYCC from December 11 to 13, bringing together presidents of chess federations from across the continent.
“It’s actually going to be a big event and we’re working in close relation with the SRC, the Ministry of Sport and our sponsors. All hands are on deck for this tournament and we hope to put Zimbabwe in the limelight in Africa and beyond.
“We are ready to deliver a world-class event and inspire the next generation of chess talent,” Mapingire said.
Confirmed Participants
Zambia, Libya, Uganda, Botswana, South Africa, Algeria, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Mozambique, Malawi, Lesotho, and Namibia.
