The Tanzania Chess Association (TACA) has stepped up efforts to promote chess among young people by strengthening cooperation with international chess organisations, including the International School Chess Federation (ISCF).
TACA Information Officer Mussa Mangula said the association is working closely with the ISCF to expand school chess programmes, support youth development, promote digital chess education and improve access to chess equipment across Tanzania.
Mangula made the remarks following a recent meeting between TACA President Geoffrey Mwanyika and World Chess Federation (FIDE) President Arkady Dvorkovich during the FIDE–ISCF World Schools Team Championship held in Stellenbosch, South Africa.
He said the meeting opened new opportunities for collaboration between Tanzania and global chess bodies, particularly in nurturing young talent.
“During the FIDE–ISCF World Schools Team Championship in Stellenbosch, South Africa, TACA Chairman Geoffrey Mwanyika held a fruitful meeting with FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, paving the way for stronger international collaboration,” Mangula said.
“Following the event, the International School Chess Federation expressed its commitment to working closely with TACA in expanding school chess, supporting youth development, advancing digital chess education and facilitating the provision of chess equipment,” he added.
Mangula said the partnership is expected to create more opportunities for young Tanzanian players to develop their skills and compete at international level.
Meanwhile, TACA has intensified preparations for two local players who will represent Tanzania at the Mozambique Rapid Chess Tournament scheduled for August.
The players, Parsa and Neema, are currently undergoing training at Don Bosco Upanga Campus under coach Hemed Mlawa as part of preparations for the competition.
Parsa emerged winner in the men’s category, while Neema finished as runner-up in the women’s category, earning them the opportunity to represent Tanzania at the tournament in Maputo from August 20 to 23, 2026.
Mangula said the selection of the two players reflects TACA’s commitment to promoting competitive chess and creating opportunities for Tanzanian players to gain international exposure.
“As part of its commitment to expanding international exposure for Tanzanian players, TACA is pleased to announce the nomination of two outstanding players to represent Tanzania at the Mozambique Rapid Chess Tournament after receiving two participation slots,” he said.
He added that the association is also preparing for a busy international chess calendar in 2026, including the Mozambique tournament and the 46th Chess Olympiad scheduled for September.
Mangula said training sessions involving players, captains, coaches and technical officials have been organised to improve team coordination, competitive readiness and overall performance.
The 46th Chess Olympiad will take place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from September 15 to 28, 2026, bringing together more than 200 teams from around the world.
