The stage is set for the 2025 Malawi Chess Open Championship, which will begin tomorrow, Saturday, 5th July, at Sigelege Beach Resort in Salima. The championship, which runs until Monday, 7th July, promises an exciting battle of minds as players from six countries compete for top honours.
This year’s event has attracted a total of 120 players competing in two main categories: the Open Section, which includes both male and female players (102 participants), and the Women’s Section, strictly for female players (18 participants).
Countries represented include Zambia, Tanzania, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Malawi, reflecting the tournament’s growing reputation across the region. Among the participants are 23 international players in the Open section and 5 in the Women’s section, making this one of the most competitive editions to date.
Defending champions Joseph Mwale of Malawi (Open Section) and Nuesta Castro of Mozambique (Women’s Section) will be looking to retain their titles against a strong field of challengers.
To spice up the competition, lucrative cash prizes are up for grabs. The Open champion will walk away with MK1,800,000, second place will take MK1,200,000, and third place MK1,000,000. In the Women’s section, the winner will receive MK1,000,000, second place MK750,000, and third place MK500,000. Additionally, consolation prizes will be awarded from positions 4 to 13.
Beyond the cash prizes, top performers in both categories will also be honoured with trophies and medals, adding prestige to their achievements.
The tournament is organized to promote the growth of chess in Malawi and provide a platform for local players to compete at an international level. All eyes will be on Sigelege Beach Resort as the games begin tomorrow morning.