By Jones Gadama
Bishop Mackenzie International School (BMIS) in Lilongwe is set to host a juniors chess tournament this Saturday, bringing together young chess enthusiasts from across the region. The event, organized by Mwale Chess Academy and Central Region Chess League (CRCL), promises to be an exciting display of strategic thinking and skill.
According to Fide Master (FM) Joseph Mwale, founder of Mwale Chess Academy and national champion, the tournament has been organized with support from BMIS and the Chess Association of Malawi (Chessam). “Registration is underway and will conclude by close of business today,” he said, urging interested participants to sign up quickly.
The six-round tournament will feature three categories: under-eight, under-12, and under-18, with both boys and girls welcome to participate. This inclusive approach aims to encourage young people to develop their chess skills and compete in a supportive environment.
The competition has already attracted attention from beyond Malawi’s borders, with Zambian player Chilango Songwe traveling to Lilongwe with his parents to participate in the event. This international participation adds an exciting dimension to the tournament, providing opportunities for local players to test their skills against opponents from other countries.
FM Mwale emphasized the importance of promoting chess among young people, citing its benefits for cognitive development, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. “Chess is not just a game; it’s a tool for developing critical thinking and analytical skills,” he said. “By participating in this tournament, young people will have the opportunity to develop these skills while having fun and competing with their peers.”
The tournament is a testament to the growing popularity of chess in Malawi and the region. With the support of organizations like BMIS and Chessam, Mwale Chess Academy is helping to nurture young talent and promote the game at the grassroots level.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to support their children by attending the tournament and cheering them on. The event promises to be an enjoyable and enriching experience for participants, and a great way to showcase the talents of young chess players in Malawi.
The juniors chess tournament is an exciting event that promises to promote chess development in Malawi and provide a platform for young players to showcase their skills. With its inclusive approach and international participation, the tournament is set to be a highlight of the chess calendar in the region.
