Cape Town set to host major international chess spectacle in April 2026

CAPE Town is preparing to take centre stage in the international chess calendar when the Moja Chess Extravaganza 2026 comes to the Bellville Velodrome from 25 to 30 April.

The six-day tournament is expected to attract close to 1,000 players from South Africa and abroad, making it one of the largest chess events ever hosted on the continent. Grandmasters and International Masters will headline several FIDE-rated sections, offering African players rare access to top-level competition without the financial burden of travelling overseas.

The event is organised by Moja Chess Solutions, a chess development organisation that has steadily grown the Extravaganza into a flagship tournament in Southern Africa. Last year’s edition drew nearly 700 players, and organisers believe the move to Cape Town will accelerate that growth.

The 2026 tournament will feature multiple competitive sections catering for elite players, women, juniors, seniors aged 50 and above, as well as developing players. A key highlight will be the use of electronic boards, allowing games to be broadcast live to a global audience and giving local talent international exposure.

Two important additions will debut in 2026. A dedicated seniors section has been introduced, along with special prizes recognising players with disabilities. Organisers say these initiatives reinforce the tournament’s commitment to inclusivity and broader access within the sport.

Founder of Moja Chess Solutions, Dr Jabulani Mokoena, described the move to Cape Town as a major milestone.

“Cape Town provides the perfect international stage for African chess. Our goal is not only to host a tournament but also to build a movement that creates opportunities, inspires young minds, and places Africa firmly on the global chess map,” said Mokoena.

Beyond the competitive element, organisers emphasise chess’s educational value, pointing to its role in improving concentration, decision-making, and academic performance. The Extravaganza forms part of a long-term vision to strengthen African chess structures and nurture future Grandmasters.

The tournament is also expected to deliver a boost to local tourism and hospitality, with players, officials, and families travelling to Cape Town for the week-long event. Sponsors and media partners have been invited to support an initiative that combines sport, youth development, and international visibility.

For registration information, tournament details and prize information, visit https://MojaChess.short.gy/brochure.