The 2026, 7th edition of the Eswatini Chess Open was officially opened on Thursday, 4 September, by the Patron of the Eswatini Chess Federation (ECF), Hon. Minister of ICT Savannah Maziya, represented at the ceremony by Mbabane Municipal Council CEO, Ms Gciniwe Fakudze.
The Patron was welcomed and introduced by ECF President Mr Vukani Dlamini, whose remarks highlighted that the presence of the Patron marks a significant step in the development of chess in Eswatini.
In her opening remarks, the Patron thanked the ECF for choosing the City of Mbabane to host the International Open tournament and asserted that Mbabane supports sports. She further thanked all sponsors and partners of the 2026 Chess Open, acknowledging the International Chess Federation (FIDE), Sincephetelo MVA Fund, iF’s Lounge and The Gift of Chess, who collectively made the event possible.
The Patron emphasised that chess is a sport that encourages critical thinking as well as innovation, further highlighting her support for girls and women — seeing them play chess, she said, is a commendable thing. The Patron also acknowledged the presence of chess players from Mozambique, Lesotho and South Africa and warmly welcomed them to Mbabane.
After officially opening the tournament, the Patron made the ceremonial first move to start the clocks for the first round of the seven rounds spread across Friday to Sunday. She also shared a light moment with the tournament’s top seed, FIDE Master Andrade Ivan (MOZ).
The Patron shared light moments with the Executive of the ECF and national team players.
The Eswatini Open is arbitrated by a high calibre of arbiters led by Chief Arbiter IA Dumisane Msibi (Eswatini), with Deputy Chief Arbiter FA Esmerelda Kegomoditswe (South Africa), FA Monaheng Motlomelo (Lesotho) and Nhaule Leonardo (Mozambique).
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