Opening Master Expands Chess Education to Ghana and 8 reasons why FIDE should invest more to Africa

Details: Published: Monday, 03 March 2025 00:48; Written by Openingmaster; Hits: 47

We are thrilled to share that Opening Master has taken its nonprofit mission for chess education to Accra, Ghana, joining forces with The Gift of Chess (New York) and the West African Chess Academy. Together, we delivered a powerful message.

Opening Master goes to Africa

“Bridging the gap into Africa is only possible through education”, said Alexander Horvath, CEO of Opening Master while delivering his speech to chess friends in Accra

And what better low-cost catalyst for education than the chessboard?

Chess is more than just a game—it’s a tool for critical thinking, problem-solving, and empowerment. By equipping children with chess knowledge, we provide them with skills that extend far beyond the board, shaping future leaders, thinkers, and innovators.

A huge thank you to everyone supporting our programs and helping us make a difference. This is just the beginning of our journey in Africa, and we are excited about the impact we can create together!

Opening Master cooperates globally with FIDE EDU because we believe in structured approach to chess education and Chess in Slums Africa because every child deserves home and education.

Opening Master Ghana

Photo: Alexander Horvath, CEO Opening Master hands Chessboard signed by Tunde Onakoya (Founder of Chess in Slums) to West African Chess Academy.

Should FIDE invest more into Africa?

When we discussed cooperation agenda with Rev. Charles Tandoh, founder of West African Chess Academy, we raised concern of not enough sponsorship opportunities and money flowing to top chess African countries like Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Egypt. We all agreed FIDE should invest more in African chess for several key reasons, ranging from expanding the global reach of the game to fostering talent development and social impact.

Here’s why:

1. Untapped Talent Pool

Africa has a vast, young population with immense chess potential. With proper investment, the continent can produce more elite players, increasing global competition.
Countries like Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya have already shown promise, but more funding could help develop grandmasters and improve international rankings.

2. Expanding the Chess Market

Africa represents a largely untapped market for chess, from tournament sponsorships to merchandise sales and digital engagement.
FIDE's investment could lead to increased participation in online chess platforms, which can generate revenue and engagement worldwide.

3. Social and Educational Impact

Chess has been proven to enhance cognitive skills, discipline, and strategic thinking, which can be particularly impactful in educational systems across Africa.
Supporting chess in schools and communities can contribute to intellectual development and provide structured opportunities for youth in areas where other recreational activities might be limited.

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4. Bridging the Gap in Chess Infrastructure

Many African nations lack proper chess infrastructure—coaches, training programs, tournament funding, and international exposure.
Establishing more academies, training centers, and regular FIDE-rated tournaments would bridge the gap between African players and the rest of the world.

5. Diversity and Global Representation

Chess needs to be a truly global game. Encouraging strong African participation ensures broader representation at major events like the Chess Olympiad and World Championship cycle. FIDE’s commitment to inclusivity can enhance the federation’s global reputation and relevance.

6. Boosting the Chess Olympiad and Continental Events

Africa’s participation in the Chess Olympiad and other FIDE events would improve if the continent had better funding for player training, travel, and tournament experience.
Strengthening regional events like the African Individual Chess Championship could increase competitive standards and provide a stepping stone for young talents.

7. Success Stories Show Potential

Players like Bassem Amin (Egypt’s first grandmaster) and Adham Fawzy prove that African talent can compete on the world stage. With more structured support, more African nations could produce GMs and IMs. The rise of chess in countries like Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana shows that interest is growing, and FIDE should capitalize on this momentum.

8. Long-Term Benefits for FIDE

Investing in African chess can help FIDE achieve its long-term goals of making chess a truly global sport, increasing membership, and fostering chess culture worldwide.
More African federations becoming active members in FIDE strengthens its position as a truly international governing body. FIDE’s investment in Africa would not just be an act of support but a strategic move to grow the game, tap into new markets, and elevate the level of global competition.

Opening Master Ghana2

Photo: Alexander Horvath, CEO Opening Master and Reverend Charles Tandoh, Ambassador of Gift of Chess and Founder of West African Chess Academy

Cooperation with International Chess Federation Education Commission (FIDE EDU)

Are you lucky one and just completed the teachers education from FIDE? We have good news for you. According to the Global contract with FIDE, Opening Master provides free access to the teachers who completed successfully the FIDE Preparation of Teachers course. Please consult with your instructor and FIDE EDU representative how to obtain the free license.

FIDE teacher course

Short video from Ghana

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