SYDNEY MUBAIWA
ASTANA- Prominent Masvingo businessman and sports enthusiast, Jerry Moyana is leading a six member delegation to the Asian country of Khazakstan for the second International Chess Federation (FIDE) Chess Olympiad for people with disabilities scheduled for 19 to 26 October, 2025.
The delegation headed by Jerry Moyana comprises of, Presence Murove, Shantel Gweshe, Prince Musokeri, Guvamatanga Kudakwashe and Captain Blessing Jemani.
In an interview with The Midweek Watch, Moyana expressed his gratitude for participating in the event.
“It’s a pleasure to see people with disabilities not being judged by their physical disability chess being played by a blind person it’s actually amazing here in Astana Kazakhstan,” he said.
Organised by FIDE and hosted by the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, this major international event underscores FIDE’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and accessibility in the global chess community.
The event brings together 34 teams from across the world. The Olympiad is composed of players with visual, hearing and physical impairments.
Each team consists of four players with at least one from each gender, one captain and one accompanying person .
In a statement FIDE president, Arkady Dvorkovick said the event is more than just a competition but it saves as a powerful symbol of inclusion, equal opportunity and respect for every individual.
“The Chess Olympiad for people with disabilities is a celebration of human potential and the spirit of competition. We are deeply grateful to the Kazakhstan Chess Federation for their dedication and hospitality. Their efforts will help us deliver an unforgettable experience for all participants. As 2025 marks the Year of Social Chess in FIDE, this event perfectly embodies our mission to promote chess as a game for everyone, regardless of physical ability,” reads the statement.
The competition will follow a 6-round Swiss system, with games played under classical time control. In addition to team medals and trophies, individual board prizes and special awards—including recognitions for youngest and oldest players in various categories.
The first edition of the Chess Olympiad for people with disabilities was held in Belgrade, Serbia, in 2023, and marked a historic milestone for accessible chess events. It attracted global attention for its inclusive spirit and high-level organization, setting the stage for a growing tradition.
