FORMER Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) president Muchakanakirwa Mkanganwi has been appointed patron of the chess association, four months after he decided against seeking another term at helm of the sport.
Mkanganwi’s appointment by the Todd Mapingire-led ZCF is a testament to the sterling work he did at the helm of the association, observers said.
“The Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) is delighted to announce the appointment of Muchakanakirwa Mkanganwi as the chess patron of Zimbabwe following a unanimous resolution by the executive and commissions during their first meeting since the November 2024 elective congress. This appointment is a testament to Mkanganwi's unwavering commitment to the development and promotion of chess in Zimbabwe, as well as his exceptional leadership and dedication to the sport,” ZCF said in a statement yesterday.
It described Mkanganwi as a “distinguished figure” in the corporate and sporting worlds.
“He currently serves as the chairperson of the board of Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe, a leading financial institution in the country. Additionally, he is the group CEO and founder of the Pulse Group, a dynamic and innovative organisation that has made significant contributions to the business landscape in Zimbabwe and beyond. His visionary leadership and entrepreneurial acumen have earned him widespread respect and admiration,” ZCF said.
It said as the immediate past president of the Zimbabwe Chess Federation, Mkanganwi played a crucial role in advancing the sport, fostering talent and elevating Zimbabwe's standing on the international chess stage.
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“His tenure was marked by numerous achievements, including the growth of chess at grassroots levels, the organisation of successful national and international tournaments and the empowerment of young chess players across the country,” it said.
"So tremendous has been Mkanganwi’s impact on local chess that most people's admiration for the sport now stems from the remarkable transformation he led. From humble beginnings, where chess was often relegated to the shadows, the ZCF, under the leadership of Mkanganwi, catapulted the sport to unprecedented heights," the statement added.
Mkanganwi accepted the new role in the sport where he made a huge impact.
“I’m honoured to have this role and to be able to support the board, the players and the entire chess fraternity in whatever way I can.
“Local chess has made huge strides in the last few years and I am committed to ensure that this upward trajectory is maintained.
“I am enthused by the energy and drive that the new ZCF executive has shown in the few months that they have been in office and long may it continue as we collaborate to move the sport, forward," he said.
Some of Mkanganwi's achievements include the establishment of a dedicated chess hub on the 16th floor of Joina City, Harare staffed by full-time employees.
Mkanganwi oversaw the review of the constitution while during his tenure, the federation secured annual sponsorship concessions which were previously non-existent, providing a vital lifeline for the ZCF.
He was instrumental in bringing in platinum sponsors such as Crystal Candy which sponsors the schools league, Minerva Risk Advisors for the Zim Open and New World Properties, the owners of Joina City, who have given chess officials offices and venues for their games.
The sponsors include CBZ, which sponsors the Nationals Tournament, Stewed Bank, the sponsors of the Easter Open Tournament, CABS which sponsors the annual Candidates Tournament and The Pulse Group which sponsors office administration to empower chess activities.
