ZIMBABWE is set to host the 16th edition of the African Youth Chess Championship (AYCC) in Harare from December 6 to 14, 2025, further cementing its growing reputation as a destination of choice for international sporting events.
The prestigious continental tournament, which serves as a crucial qualifier for the World Chess Championship, will bring Africa's best young talent to the capital.
The event, which was initially planned for Victoria Falls, was strategically moved to Harare to ensure more affordable and accessible travel for the vast number of participants.
Matches will be staged at the Cresta Lodge, where international titles and awards will be up for grabs across the Under 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, and 18 categories for both boys and girls.
The Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) is anticipating a massive turnout, a factor which also influenced the venue change.
"We are honoured and proud to have been entrusted with hosting the 2025 Africa Youth Chess Championship," said ZCF president, Todd Mapingire, in an extensive interview on the federation's preparations.
"This is a major milestone for Zimbabwean chess and a testament to the growing confidence in our federation’s organisational capacity and in Zimbabwe as a safe and credible host nation."
Mapingire detailed the projected scale of the tournament, highlighting the economic and sporting benefits for the country.
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Bulls to charge into Zimbabwe gold stocks
- Ndiraya concerned as goals dry up
- Letters: How solar power is transforming African farms
Keep Reading
"We anticipate participation from between 25 to 35 African countries, with total attendance projected at around 1,000 to 1,500 participants, including players, officials, and accompanying persons," he stated.
"The tournament will coincide with the African Chess Confederation conference which will take place between December 11-13 here in Harare.
“The conference will be attended by all African chess presidents hence it’s most likely all those attending will also bring chess players to the tournament."
The ZCF president stressed the long-term positive impact the championship will have on local development.
"The impact is immense. Hosting the AYCC will boost interest in chess across the country, particularly among the youth. It provides international exposure for our local players, helps improve standards through interaction with top talent from across Africa, and brings long-term benefits in terms of development, infrastructure, and international recognition," Mapingire explained.
The Zimbabwean team, which will be fighting for honours on home soil, is being carefully selected.
"Yes, our medalists in the ZCF national youth champions that from under 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 and 18 and Nash and Naph same category medalists from earlier in the year will form the core of Team Zimbabwe, and registration is ongoing," Mapingire confirmed.
"We’re expecting a strong performance on home soil, with our players benefitting from local support and reduced travel-accommodation related stress."
He also noted a key logistical advantage for local players. "In our case, locals can participate coming from home or own accommodation near the venue whilst all foreign players will be housed at Cresta hotels as the official venue of the tournament."
Regarding the readiness of the host federation, Mapingire expressed confidence
. "Preparations are well underway,” he said. We have formed a Local Organising Committee, appointed provincial mobilisation teams, recruited additional staff in the office, secured the venue at Cresta Lodge, and are working closely with the Sports and Recreation Commission and the African Chess Confederation.
“We’re confident of delivering a world-class event."
The ZCF’s appeal for corporate support remains ongoing.
"We have approached several stakeholders in the public and private sectors. It’s an ongoing process. We’ve also received support from institutions such as the Sports and Recreation Commission.
“Our sponsorship drive is ongoing, and we are appealing to more partners to come on board, especially in supporting equipment and logistics," he concluded.
The tournament is anticipated to be a spectacular showcase of African chess talent, offering a platform for the continent's brightest young minds to battle for glory and a ticket to the world stage.
