ALL is now in place for the staging of the 16th African Youth Chess Championship (AYCC) that kicks off tomorrow in Harare.
The prestigious continental event, which runs until December 14, will see nearly 600 young athletes from 17 African nations converge at Dominican Convent School for nine days of high-stakes competition.
This championship marks the country’s first time hosting an African Chess Confederation event since 2017, underscoring Zimbabwe’s growing capacity to host world-class sporting spectacles.
Tournament director Agab Zvoba declared the nation fully ready to host the event.
“If readiness had a rating, we would be sitting comfortably at the top,” he said, emphasising that the AYCC is a critical platform to nurture Africa’s young intellectual giants, promote continental unity, and raise future Grandmasters.
The main venue, Dominican Convent School, has been transformed into a battlefield of brilliance, with meticulous attention paid to creating a focused, world-class competitive environment.
The organisation has also ensured top-tier hospitality, with Cresta Hotels accommodating the players and shuttle services scheduled with the precision of a Swiss pairing system to manage transport.
The home team is poised for a strong showing, with captains expressing confidence and excitement.
- A day in the life of DJ King Her
- Zim chess team leaves for African Youth Chess Champs
- Zimbabwe gears up for historic African Youth Chess Championship
- Minds set to battle as African Youth Chess Championship kicks off
Keep Reading
Thandazani Mushore, captain of the boys’ team, called the hosting a huge moment that shows how far we have come as a country in terms of chess.
He added that competing against the continent’s best is invaluable for their growth, with the ultimate goal being to excel globally.
Similarly, Zim ladies’ team captain Ropafadzo Gwatidzo affirmed: “We are ready for the tournament. We have been preparing very well and I am confident that my team is going to excel in this tournament.”
The Championship is poised to be more than just a tournament; it’s a milestone event celebrating the unstoppable rise of African talent.
The organisers invite the media to amplify the stories of these young stars and showcase Zimbabwe’s hosting excellence as the battles of the minds officially begin tomorrow.
