ZIMBABWE’S pioneering International Arbiter, Simbarashe Murimi, is again in the limelight for his prestigious appointment as the Chief Arbiter for the 2023 Africa Youth Chess Championships.
Set against the historical backdrop of Cairo, Egypt, from 1 September to 9 September 2023, this championship promises to showcase the crème de la crème of Africa’s young chess talents.
Murimi’s acknowledgement by the African chess community has been an emblem of personal achievement and a testament to the trust he’s garnered in his illustrious career.
“It’s not easy getting invitations into Northern Africa events. Being there is a vote of confidence in my proficiency as an arbiter,” an emotional Murimi told EnterSportNews on his selection.
But the horizon is only expanding for this seasoned arbiter. In a letter from the Organising Committee and the Italian Chess Federation, and with the endorsement of FIDE, the International Chess Federation, Murimi has been extended another prestigious invitation.
He is set to officiate as an Arbiter at the World Youth Chess Championship 2023 in Montesilvano, Italy, from 12 November to 25 November.
These back-to-back international appointments are no surprise to those familiar with Murimi’s track record. He’s Zimbabwe’s first International Arbiter and its longest-serving one. The veteran arbiter has previously officiated in several international tournaments, further establishing his credentials on the global stage.
In 2008, Murimi notably took on the role of arbiter at the revered 38th Chess Olympiad and again in 2022 at the 44th Olympiad in India. These moments were landmark achievements for both Murimi and Zimbabwe, underscoring the nation’s prominent mark on the international chess stage.
As the 2023 Africa Youth Chess Championships beckons, the chess community will look to Cairo eagerly. With Murimi’s expertise at the forefront, the tournament promises to be a seamless and fair contest, further elevating Africa’s status in chess.
