ZIMBABWEAN chess players put up a strong show at the Project Chess Zambia Championships held at Courtyard Hotel in Livingstone from 29–31 August 2025.
Victoria Falls-based player Duncan Mahata came second in the combined section after scoring 7.5 points. His performance made him the best-placed Zimbabwean at the tournament. Mahata has been improving with each outing, and this result was another proud moment for the country.
In the elite section, veteran player Spencer Masango also did well, finishing joint fifth in a tough round-robin event. Masango began with a hard-fought draw against International Master Gillian Bwalya, then went on to defeat Candidate Master Hapaku Charles (rated 2120) and Kantalamba Mushota (rated 2051). He also received a walkover against Timothy Kabwe.
Masango later drew with Fide Master Douglas Munenga and International Master Kelvin Chumfwa. His only losses came against Candidate Master Nyambe Maketo (2108), FM Chola Musonda (2167), and eventual winner IM Chitumbo Mwali. He ended with 4.5 points from nine games, a solid performance in such a strong field.
The elite section featured three International Masters, two Fide Masters, and two Candidate Masters seven titled players in total. The event, now in its third edition, was organised by IM Andrew Kayonde. FA Mary Mashane served as Chief Arbiter, assisted by FA Victor Chimbamu.
