Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
MWEYAMUTSVENE High School in Marange area, commonly known as Bocha, will host the inaugural Zimbabwe Primary and Secondary Chess Grand Tour.
Learners from various provinces will compete for a spot among the Top 10, who will then participate in the championship match to determine the overall national winner.
The championship match is scheduled to take place at Mpumelelo Primary School in Gweru at a date to be announced.
The Mweyamutsvene event will feature participants from schools in Midlands, Harare, Masvingo, and Manicaland.
The tournament will be played using the Swiss pairing model, with a 60+0 format and FIDE rules applying.
Rounds one to four will take place on Friday, while rounds five to eight are set for Saturday.
Participants were expected to arrive at the competition venue by yesterday (Thursday).
The tournament is being organised by Lannisters Chess Academy and Trendy Accessories Zimbabwe, a private company.
In a statement, the organisers stated: “The aim of this initiative is too promote chess education, and provide a platform for primary and secondary school learners to develop their critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
“Lannisters Chess Academy in partnership with Trendy Accessories Zimbabwe is happy to invite all primary and secondary schools, Government and private, to participate in the Zimbabwe Grand Chess Tour.”
Trendy Accessories Zimbabwe is a fashion jewellery company that supplies beads and beaded accessories.
It also provides WhatsApp lessons for fashion jewellery and beaded bags.
Trendy Accessories Zimbabwe has trained over 3 000 women and male youths to date, and is located in Harare.
Vincent Manengamambo, the core founder of Lannisters Chess Academy and chief organiser of Zimbabwe Secondary and Primary Schools, said: “The Zimbabwe Primary and Secondary Grand Chess Tour aims to identify and nurture young chess talent, foster a sense of community and sportsmanship among participants. Benefits – Participating in The Zimbabwe Primary and Secondary Grand Chess Tour offers numerous benefits, including developing sportsmanship and teamwork. Chess promotes healthy competition, sportsmanship, and teamwork.
“The game prepares learners for future opportunities. Chess can open doors for scholarships, tournaments, and other opportunities. Six Slots of scholarships are available, three for primary students and three for secondary learners.
“The Zimbabwe Primary and Secondary Grand Chess Tour will consist of two major events that is the championship qualification match whose venue is Mweyatsvene High School. Winners will receive prizes and medals. Top three from the championship match final players will be eligible for scholarships and other opportunities.”
