The 17th edition of the African Chipkizi Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Arusha, Tanzania, from December 7 to 13. Over 200 chess players have registered for the tournament, which will feature chess for the first time since its introduction in Arusha. The competition, organised by Future Stars Academy, will include children aged nine to U17, with matches scheduled from December 11 to 13.
The African Chipkizi Cup 2026 will feature five sports: football, swimming, basketball, Esports (FIFA), and chess. The tournament aims to provide youths with opportunities to build relationships, compete, and showcase their talents. A total of 330 football teams and 32 basketball teams are expected to participate, alongside over 200 swimmers, 200 chess participants, and 100 Esports (FIFA) participants.
The Director of Iyanna Foundation and founder of chess in Arusha, Prisca Lema, highlighted that chess is one of the fastest-growing sports in Tanzania and abroad. She noted that chess provides various opportunities for youths, including employment as coaches and exposure. According to Lema, the sport contributes to children's growth and helps them develop decision-making skills.
Lema emphasised that organisers are well-prepared to ensure participants are entered into national levels recognised by Tanzania Chess, enabling them to have good records and access more opportunities to participate in international competitions. She urged parents and guardians to give children opportunities to participate in the competition so that they can showcase and develop their talents.
The Director of Future Stars Academy, Alfred Itaeli, confirmed that nine countries have confirmed participation in the tournament: hosts Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique, Burundi, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Somalia. Itaeli stated that agents from various international institutions in Africa and Europe will attend the tournament to scout young male and female talents and provide national and international opportunities.
The tournament will be held at different venues, with the main venue being the YEC grounds at Future Stars. Other venues include TGT, Braeburn International School, and UWC. The event will involve youths aged between five and 20.
The African Chipkizi Cup 2026 is expected to provide a platform for young talents to showcase their skills and gain exposure. With the inclusion of chess for the first time, the tournament is set to offer more opportunities for youths to participate and develop their talents.
Key points
- Over 200 chess players have registered for the 17th edition of the African Chipkizi Cup 2026 in Arusha, Tanzania.
- The tournament will feature five sports: football, swimming, basketball, Esports (FIFA), and chess.
- Nine countries have confirmed participation in the tournament, including hosts Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Somalia.
