Emalahleni Chess Academy to host international tournament this weekend
Top international players are set to gather in eMalahleni for the annual Spring Open chess tournament.
A chess tournament set to be hosted in the city this coming weekend will bring together top players from neighbouring countries.
The annual Emalahleni Spring Open chess tournament will take place at Witbank High from September 19 to 20 and will feature grandmasters from countries including Malawi, Zambia, Eswatini and Botswana.
Organised by Emalahleni Chess Academy, under the leadership of its founder and president, Fortune Macassa, the event aims to create a platform where local talent can compete with international stars.
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R55 000 prize fund to attract top talent
Macassa said: “Our vision is bigger than organising a chess tournament. We want to use chess to develop young people, bring international competition to our doorstep, stimulate our local economy and showcase Emalahleni beyond our borders. The guaranteed R55 000 prize fund demonstrates our commitment to growing the tournament and attracting quality competition to our city.”
The academy calls upon businesses, mining companies, government institutions, community organisations and chess enthusiasts to support this important international sporting event.
“Through strong partnerships, the academy believes that the Emalahleni Spring Open can continue growing into one of the most recognised annual chess tournaments in the region,” added Macassa.
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— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) September 13, 2026
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