The All African Games is a mini Olympics, or the Olympics for Africans. It is a sporting event where different African countries will represent their flags and compete for the big prize – gold.

History of Chess in African Games

African Games was introduced in 2005 in Abuja, since it’s introduction, chess has become a noteworthy competition. Egypt has won an impressive 23 golds, while Nigeria secured a commendable 3rd place with 8 golds. The 8×8 game has become a coveted event for nations aiming to clinch gold, making it a pivotal moment for all, particularly the dedicated chess players.

Chess in African Games

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) is in support of this update as the African games will be a rated event. This makes it all the more interesting as people without ranks or unrated players can play and get ratings and this is also an opportunity for rated players to get higher ratings.

The FIDE president in person Arkady Dvorkovich said “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.” The show of appreciation for such inclusion in the African games is glaring.

Chess at the African Games starts on the 8th of March and goes all the way to the 23rd of this same month, 2024. A good place to stream this on YouTube is via Dan Kwaku, a sports enthusiast’s channel.

The format involves a team of players in which one male and one female will be representing their respective countries. The different game modes 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.

The format involves a team of players in which one male and one female will be representing their respective countries. The different game modes 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.

As chess has been encouraged from the Cxmmunity Chess Rankings to ChessInSlum to being a game in the African Games, this will bring a smile to a lot of chess enthusiasts and the fans of chess, and it’s what we love to see.

Good luck to every team at the All African Games and may the best team win.