NCS Inmate Chess Team Finishes 5th in Continental Championship, Qualifies for Global Stage
By TUW
The Namibian Correctional Service (NCS) inmate chess squad has secured a commendable fifth-place finish at the Second Continental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners – Africa, which took place on 12 May 2026.
Held under the International Chess Federation (FIDE) “Chess for Freedom” programme, the competition brought together incarcerated players from across the continent in a high-level online contest focused on skill and rehabilitation through sport.
Namibia’s team was formed after internal selection trials held on 2 May 2026 at the Windhoek Correctional Facility, where eight inmates earned their places on the national squad following strong performances.
In the continental tournament, the Namibian representatives delivered a solid campaign, registering four victories against three defeats. Their performance was strong enough to secure qualification for the Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners, which is set to be staged in October 2026.
