BULAWAYO,15 Oct (Southern Eye-Live) -The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) chess teams have made their mark at the 6th Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners 2026, with the men's team qualifying for the championship stage while the women's team bowed out with pride.
In Men's Group 6，Zimbabwe topped the seven-round qualifying group with 12 match points and 19 game points ahead of Malawi 2 – Zomba which finished second with 10 match points.
"The men's team showed great determination and consistency to finish top of a very competitive group. Qualifying for the championship stage is a proud moment for the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service," a ZPCS official said.
In Women's Group 02, Zimbabwe finished third with five match points and 8.5 game points after five rounds. Romania and Malawi took the two qualification places.
The women did not progress but impressed with their commitment.
"Our women's team may not have qualified, but they represented the country with distinction and gained valuable international experience. Their fighting spirit is commendable," the official said.
The tournament, held under the Chess for Freedom initiative by FIDE and partners, uses chess as a tool for rehabilitation, intellectual development and social reintegration.
"Chess teaches critical thinking, patience and discipline. These are life skills that support rehabilitation and personal transformation beyond the board," the official added.
- MRP petitions prison services over jailed members
- NPRC sends SOS for drug abusers
- Chamisa ‘denied’ access to Sikhala . . .As Govt allows Mwonzora to visit Chikurubi prison
- Chamisa cleared to visit jailed MPs
Keep Reading
ZPCS said participation reflects its commitment to giving inmates opportunities to develop talent and build confidence through constructive competition as the men prepare for the championship stage.
