In a groundbreaking move, chess is set to be featured among 23 sports at the 13th African Games, taking place in Accra, Ghana, from March 8th to March 23rd, 2024.
FIDE President, Arkady Dvorkovich expressed the significance of this moment, stating, “The inclusion of chess in this prestigious multi-sport event is a significant step in the international recognition of the game at big international sports competitions.”
Chess first debuted in the African Games in 2003, appearing in all subsequent editions until 2015. The decision to reintroduce chess in the 13th edition was welcomed by the Minister of Youth & Sports of the Republic of Ghana, highlighting the global standing of the game.
Grandmaster Nigel Short, FIDE’s Director for chess development, shared his excitement about the inclusion, saying, “To have chess included in one of the biggest sports events in Africa is wonderful. It reaffirms the place chess has as a sport in major sporting events and is a step closer to having chess present at the Olympic Games.”
The chess tournament at the 13th African Games will see the participation of 24 countries, each entering a team consisting of two chess players, including one man, one woman, and one captain. The competition formats will include the Mixed Team Rapid Championship, Men’s Rapid Championship, Women’s Rapid Championship, Mixed Team Blitz Championship, Men’s Blitz Championship, and Women’s Blitz Championship. This move follows the successful reintroduction of chess to the Asian Games, emphasizing the growing recognition of chess in major sporting events worldwide.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the 13th African Games aims to promote positive rivalry among the youth of Africa, projecting unity to the world. The event will also showcase Africa’s rich art and culture, contributing to socio-economic development across the continent.
