THE fourth edition of the highly anticipated Zimbabwe International Open Chess Tournament is set to take place from July 31-August 04 at Harare’s Joina City.
This annual event is organised by the Zimbabwe Chess Federation and sponsored for the fourth consecutive year by Minerva Risk Advisors, has become a highlight on the country’s chess calendar, attracting top players from Zimbabwe and beyond.
The 2023 edition concluded with joint winners Fide Master (FM) Jemusse Zhemba and International Master (IM) Gillan Bwayla who shared spoils in the final round.
This year’s tournament is expected to be equally exciting, with the Zimbabwe Chess Federation anticipating over 200 chess players to compete across various categories, from five-year-olds to seniors over 50 years of age.
Lydia Tanyanyiwa, Minerva Risk Advisors’ Group Chief Executive Officer, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for supporting this event emphasising Minerva’s belief that chess promotes independent thinking and the desire to see the sport reach the most disadvantaged communities, schools, and young people in Zimbabwe.
“We are here to talk about the Minerva Zimbabwe International Open Chess Tournament, which we have been sponsoring for the last few years. It is Minerva, and we hope to continue sponsoring it into the future, ” Tanyanyiwa said.
ZCF Secretary-General Todd Mapingire echoed Tanyanyiwa’s sentiments, noting the significance of Minerva’s long-term partnership and also shared exciting news about the federation’s initiatives to integrate chess into the national school curriculum, further solidifying the sport’s growth in the country.
“Without such partnerships, chess will never go to the grassroots. Every year, before Minerva came on board, we would be asking for sponsorship for the Zimbabwe International Open Tournament. This is the biggest tournament that we have in the country,” Mapingire explained.
The tournament has become a hunting ground for Zambian players, who have consistently performed well in previous editions.
This year’s event is used as a preparation ground for the Budapest 45th Olympiad-bound team including FM Roy Mwadzura, National Champion Emarald Mushore, and debutant Vitalis Mapuranga.
The women’s team will feature WCM Kudzanayi Charinda, who won the women’s section in 2023, as well as Linda Shaba, Colleta Wakuruwarehwa, Tatenda Zengeni and Women National Champion Christine Makwena.
Tanyanyiwa also stated Minerva’s commitment to promoting intellectual growth and backing national sports programs.
“By sponsoring this chess tournament, we are demonstrating our commitment to fostering intellectual development, supporting national sports initiatives, and elevating the profile of chess as a strategic and captivating game,” she added.
“We believe this sponsorship will contribute to the holistic growth of the sport in Zimbabwe and inspire more people to engage with the game.”
Mapingire also expressed ZCF’s excitement and happiness about the partnership with Minerva.
“We are thankful to Minerva Risk Advisors for the partnership that they have come to over the last three years, and this year will be our fourth year.”
The tournament’s prize pool of $7,260, provided by Minerva, will further drive the excitement and participation, as players from across the country and beyond will compete for the coveted prize.
The event will also feature a closing ceremony with entertainment, providing a fitting conclusion to this celebration of chess excellence in Zimbabwe.
