DSAC commits funding for SA chess athletes ahead of 2026 Commonwealth Chess Championships

The Ministry has committed over R4.1 million to support 88 athletes - to ensure that they participate at the international event.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mabe says the government stepped in after recognising that many families could not afford traveling costs for athletes, and wanted to give them a final relief.

"We took it upon ourselves to further investigate. To understand who is representing South Africa. And we realized that the need was dire and that parents really wanted their children to participate, and that they had made other means to ensure that their children would represent South Africa -not themselves and not their schools, but the country," said Mabe 

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"We then sat around the table and looked at the parents who had gone to 'Abo Mashonisa,' made loans for their children to participate. We decided it was through this small voice that made everyone benefit, so hence we came to the conclusion that would carry everyone who is going to represent South Africa."

Mabe adds that the department is in ongoing communication with Chess South Africa, which has welcomed the financial support.

She also encouraged the federation to develop programmes that will make chess more accessible to disadvantaged communities.

Mabe further called on all South African sports federations to improve accessibility and provide greater support to talented athletes, particularly those who have qualified for international competitions.