Malawi has marked a historic milestone in the rehabilitation of incarcerated individuals with the launch of the Chess for Freedom Workshop and the hosting of the first-ever continental prison chess championship in Lilongwe. The initiative is part of an ongoing effort by the Malawi Prison Service to shift from punitive measures to transformative correctional strategies.

Speaking at the opening of the event, Commissioner of Prisons Bazirial Chapuwala emphasized the department’s commitment to rehabilitation through innovative programs like chess.

“We are migrating from Prisons to Corrections in our approach. Chess is not just a game, it builds critical thinking, emotional control, and discipline, which are essential for reformation,” he said.

Andre Vogtlin, Chairperson of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) Social Commission, who travelled from Switzerland for the event, described the project as “remarkable and life-changing.”

“People often react with surprise ‘Chess in prison?’ But it’s beautiful. Chess connects families; children can now play chess with their parents even when they are incarcerated,” Vogtlin said.

“It’s more than a game, it’s a social tool. I’ve seen its impact not only in prisons but also in refugee camps and elderly homes. Chess gives people purpose.”

The event was hosted by Dadaz Chess Academy, whose founder, Suzanne Namangale, has been instrumental in bringing the initiative to life across the country.

“We started in just a few prisons, but today, we’re active in 20 facilities across Malawi,” Namangale explained.
“Chess has helped inmates reduce anxiety, rethink their actions, and prepare for a better life after prison. It complements the reformation bill recently passed in Parliament.”

Namangale added that Malawian prisons have already taken part in intercontinental chess championships.

“In the last competition, we had four teams representing Malawi, including Zomba, Maula, Akachele Women, and Vumbwe Youth Rehabilitation Centre. Hosting this workshop and championship is a huge milestone for us.”

Councilor of the FIDE Social Commission Dr. Mikhail Korenman also addressed the gathering, highlighting the global momentum of the Chess for Freedom program.

“Tomorrow, three more countries, Lesotho, Belgium, and a region in southern Australia, will join the project. That brings the total to 52 countries. Chess is proving to help inmates stay out of jail once released,” he said.

Meanwhile, CHESSAM Vice President Francis Kudzula said the program complements the association’s national mission.
“Chess for Freedom aligns with our goal of making Malawi a chess-playing nation,” said Kudzula.

The event drew participants from across Africa and beyond and some were attending through online from different destinations.