Maqonda Ndlovu
The Namibia Chess Federation has received a N$500,000 sponsorship from Bank Windhoek for their developmental programmes as well as national tournaments for 2023/24.
Jacquiline Pack, Executive Officer of Marketing and Corporate Communication Services at Bank Windhoek, made the announcement yesterday at the Nictus Cultural Centre in Windhoek.
Pack said the sponsorship aims to provide resources for chess programmes, tournaments, and educational initiatives across Namibia.
“Chess is more than just a game; it is a powerful tool for enhancing thinking and analytic skills, crucial in fostering intellectual growth. In a world increasingly driven by technology, the ability to analyse situations, think strategically, and make informed decisions is paramount,” she said. She added that chess, with its intricate moves and strategic complexities, serves as a catalyst
for honing these skills by providing a unique platform for individuals to develop their cognitive
abilities.
“Bank Windhoek is not new to the chess fraternity and has been a partner in empowering this sport code since 2007. It has seen the establishment and roll-out of the Bank Windhoek National Junior Chess Championships across 100 schools. By investing in chess, we are not just supporting a game; we are investing in the intellectual capital of our nation,” Pack stated.
On their part, NCF president Goodwill Khoa said this was the largest domestic sponsorship for the federation to date.
“It comes at a time when we need it the most to not only enable us to host our national events but to develop chess in all regions. Chess is universal and easy to set up, learn, and play. We are now confident
that we can start chess activities in all 10 zones,” he said.
The zones are Keetmanshoop and surrounding areas, Mariental and the surrounding areas, Windhoek and surrounding areas, Erongo region, Otjiwarongo and surrounding areas, Kunene, Oshakati and surrounding areas, Kavango East, Zambezi regions, and Lüderitz and surrounding areas.
He said the sponsorship is 10% of their projected budget and will be used to cover phase one out of the four, hence the need to acquire more funds.
Phase two will involve schools, prisons, and people living with disabilities, as well as the training
of commissioners and arbiters.
Phase three will encompass guaranteed international participation and the hosting of international events, while phase four aims to make chess the country’s number one sport code by professionalising the game.
“With this sponsorship, the NCF is now under contractual obligation to ensure we meet the expectations agreed upon. However, the success of chess is a collective effort, not an individual one. I wish to call upon all chess players, old and new, to hold hands with the NCF and take charge of the chess development initiative,” he concluded.