CBZ Holdings’ subsidiaries, CBZ Bank and CBZ Red Sphere Finance, have announced their sponsorship of the 2025 National Chess Championships, set to take place in Harare next week.
This marks the third consecutive year that CBZ Bank has partnered with the Zimbabwe Chess Federation (ZCF) as title sponsor.
The partnership, officially unveiled at a press conference in Harare on Thursday, aims to ensure the success of the premier chess event on the national calendar.
CBZ Red Sphere Finance is joining the sponsorship for the first time, demonstrating the group’s commitment to promoting chess development in Zimbabwe.
“At CBZ, we not only provide financial solutions — we invest in vision, strategy, and potential. Chess embodies these principles, making this sponsorship a natural fit,” CBZ Bank acting managing director Norman Mhondiwa, said.
“Chess is a game of precision, foresight, and calculated risk — skills that drive success not just on the board but in global finance. Every move has consequences; every decision shapes the future. The same is true in banking and investment, where strategy determines long-term success.
“This championship is more than a competition. It’s an investment in Zimbabwe’s brightest minds, future grandmasters, and the country’s growing intellectual capital. CBZ is committed to fostering talent and driving growth, just as we have in other fields, from sports to entrepreneurship.
“As Zimbabwe’s leading financial institution, CBZ continues to push boundaries in financial innovation and inclusion. We are not just funding this event—we are shaping the future of talent and strategic excellence in Zimbabwe. We look forward to an exciting tournament and to seeing the next generation of chess champions rise,” he added.
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CBZ Red Sphere Finance was represented by general manager Desmond Ali, who expressed delight at the partnership.
“This alignment of strategy is what makes our partnership with CBZ Bank and the Zimbabwe Chess Federation so significant,” he said.
“By co-sponsoring this championship, we are not just funding a tournament — we are investing in Zimbabwe’s future grandmasters and in a culture of strategic excellence. Our commitment to empowerment extends beyond chess; we have supported women’s football and other initiatives that uplift communities.”
He added: “Our mission is to form strategic alliances that expand financial access and drive innovation. We reduce borrowing costs, enhance financial literacy, and create tech-driven solutions to serve underserved markets."
A total of 20 of the country’s best players — 10 men and 10 women — will compete for the national title.
Last year’s event was won by Emerald Mushore in the men’s category and Christine Makwena in the women’s competition. Mushore will aim to retain his title but faces stiff competition from the likes of Blessing Moyo, Tanaka Katsande, and Castor Sibanda, among others.
In the women’s category, players such as Kudzai Chirinda, Nomalumgelo Mathe, and Tatenda Zengeni will challenge Makwena’s reign.
The ZCF expressed gratitude for CBZ’s continued support for chess, particularly the national championships.
“This partnership is a testament to the growing recognition of chess as a vital part of Zimbabwe’s sporting landscape,” a ZCF representative said.
“We are thrilled to have CBZ Bank on board and look forward to working together to promote chess development in our country. Their support will enable us to provide a world-class experience for our players, coaches, and officials, and we’re excited to see the impact it will have on our sport.”
The winners of the CBZ National Championships will earn the privilege of representing Zimbabwe at international tournaments.
