Owner of Scenic Events Centre, Manfred Chaponda, who sponsored a day long chess tournament in Blantyre on Saturday said there is a need to motivate more young people to take part in the game to enable them to participate in national and international tournaments.

He describes chess as strategic, fanciful and a game of creative mind.

“I think there is a need for an improved national recognition to the sport by motivating young players to participate in national and international tournaments,” said Chaponda.

The businessman added that he decided to give back in sponsoring the tournament in order to develop the sport in Malawi.

“I started playing chess when I was at Zomba Catholic Secondary School, so I thought I could do something to put the game on the limelight,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Publicity Secretary for Southern Region Chess League, Martin Charles Lefu has asked well-wishers and the corporate world to support the game to make Malawi a chess playing nation.

“This tournament gives a chance to both young and seasoned players to show their talent. Research shows that when children start playing the game at a tender age, they do better in life. This does not mean adults cannot learn chess, they can and also do better at the sport,” said Lefu.

He further stressed that the country is slowly making strides in developing the sport.

Over 40 chess players including those as young as 10 years old from all regions of the country took part in the tournament which was held at Scenic Events Center in Blantyre.