For the first time in history, Botswana will host the Africa Individual Chess Championship from the 18 June -27 June 2026 at Cresta Lodge in Jwaneng, attracting over 40 countries that are affiliated to the African Chess Confederation (ACC).
The Africa Individual Chess Championship is the highest competitive continental event. It has competition gains such as titles, ratings and a World Cup qualifier event.
In an interview, Botswana Chess Federation, Public Relations Officer, Goitsemodimo Makgatle said for Botswana as a host of the championship they have the advantage of fielding the highest number of players and using local officials. She stated that the competition will put Botswana on the map as a qualified and capable host.
Makgatle has announced that the championship is structured in two sections which include the Open section and the Ladies section and the participating countries are expected to send their highest rated players to take part. Makgatle noted that Botswana as the host country is allowed to field 10 players per section.
“We are looking at most of African countries to grace the occasion especially looking at the fact that Botswana is strategically located to most of the Southern African countries, with close access to OR Tambo so it will be easier to fly in,” she said.
In preparing for the competition Makgatle said that they have established a Local Organising Committee (LOC) that meets weekly, however they will host daily meetings during the final weeks before the competition.
“Registration for the competition has commenced. We have confirmed the venue and the major sponsors acquired through the African Chess Confederation (ACC). Our team has already been selected to represent Botswana and the training plan is being finalized,” she said.
Makgatle revealed that all officially recognised senior national team players have automatically qualified for the Africa Individual Chess Championship and will be fully sponsored by Botswana Chess Federation (BCF).
“Invited players will be required to confirm their participation within a specified time frame. Failure to confirm within the deadline will result in the opportunity being offered to the next eligible player. BCF encourages all eligible players to take advantage of this opportunity to compete at a continental level and gain valuable international experience,” she said.
According to Makgatle, Africa Chess Confederation (ACC) is also celebrating its 50 years of existence this year as such they are hoping to see African countries celebrating together this milestone during the competition.
