The National Bank of Malawi PLC has donated MK12.5 million to the Chess Association of Malawi (CHESSAM) to support the country’s participation in the 2025 Africa Youth Chess Championship in Harare, Zimbabwe, scheduled for December 7–13.
The financial support will cater for air travel, registration, accommodation and meals for four of the 16 Malawian players travelling to the continental tournament.
CHESSAM General Secretary Gift Howahowa commended the bank for its timely assistance, saying the selected players are champions from various competitions and deserving beneficiaries of the support.
He said the gesture goes beyond the tournament itself, noting that the bank is investing in the future of Malawi’s young chess talents by giving them exposure at an international level.
National Bank’s Chief Information Security Officer, Bestone Kasoloka, said the contribution demonstrates the institution’s commitment to helping young people realise their potential and compete globally.
Kasoloka encouraged the players to represent Malawi with pride and determination, urging them to carry the national flag with honour and maintain discipline and courage throughout the competition.
The four beneficiaries of the sponsorship are Rachel Jailos (Under-16), Bestone Phiri (Under-14), Alipo Namangale (Under-10) and Lucy Chimeta (Under-10).
The Africa Youth Chess Championship is one of the continent’s premier platforms for nurturing emerging talent, and Malawi’s participation is expected to boost the country’s presence in regional chess development.
