Africa-Press – Botswana. Botswana’s top ranked chess player, Women FIDE Master Natalie Banda delivered an outstanding performing at the 2025 Zone 4.5 Africa Chess Championships held in Angola.
Following an intense and nail biting competition, Banda earned herself a Bronze medal and managed to collect seven points out of possible nine.
She drew two games, one against title holder, Caxita Esperanca (Angola) and lost one game to Angola’s Ednasia Junior who finished second, even though both of them having accumulated seven points each.
“Overall I think it was a good tournament, I performed really well and gained a lot of experience. Finishing third in a zonal tournament is amazing and I’m so happy,” said Natalie.
She said prior to the tournament she had prepared and trained a lot hence glad with her achievement.
The Botswana Chess Federation (BCF) Development Director, Lorato Thapelo said Banda’s invitation to the Angola championship came as recognition of her remarkable ranking and potential within the African chess community.
“Beyond this tournament, Natalie’s journey is a story of passion, discipline, and resilience.
Her hard work and commitment to the sport have also earned her an elite scholarship through sport, and she will be pursuing her studies in the USA starting January 2026,” said Thapelo.
She said the remarkable opportunity reflected her balance of academic excellence and sporting achievement.
Thapelo said Banda’s success had been made possible through the support of her family, the chess community, her coaches and the BCF.
She also said Banda’s determination was truly unmatched as she continued to inspire many young players in Botswana, proving that with focus and perseverance, success knew no limits.
She said the BCF was proud of Banda’s accomplishments and remained committed to nurturing and supporting more young talents like her across the country.
Seven Southern African countries competed in the tournament being the host Angola, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana.
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