19 Feb 2026

The Botswana Chess Federation (BCF) has officially announced its senior national team following the conclusion of the national team selection tournament held over the weekend.

The event delivered a high-level competition and showcased the country’s finest chess talent.

In the Open Section, Arnold Mothudi emerged victorious, marking a symbolic return to elite chess. Once a dominant force in his youth career, Mothudi’s comeback to the senior national team underscores his enduring skill and experience.

BCF President Kutlwano Tatolo highlighted the rise of two promising youth players, Sebetlela Gaasite and Thuto Mpene, who earned their first senior team call-ups.

“Their success reflects the strength of Botswana’s youth development programmes and signals a bright future for the sport,” said Tatolo.

In the women’s category, seasoned representatives, Women International Master Dr. Onkemetse Francis and Women FIDE Master Thapelo Francis reaffirmed their consistency by securing qualification.

“They will be joined by an exciting group of youth players; Maya Otimile, Phoebe Moshoboro, and Atang Mosweu whose achievement marks an important milestone in their careers and further strengthens the future of women’s chess in Botswana,” Tatolo said.

The selected players will represent Botswana at the sport’s most prestigious global team event; the 2026 World Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan in September.

Tatolo emphasised that their participation offers a vital opportunity to showcase Botswana’s growing strength on the international stage.

In addition, Botswana will host the Africa Individual Chess Championship in June 2026, where the newly-named senior team will compete against the continent’s best.

“Hosting this continental championship reflects Botswana’s rising profile as a leading chess nation and its commitment to developing the sport across the region,” Tatolo added.

The BCF congratulated all selected players, expressing full confidence in their ability to represent the nation with pride and distinction. ENDS