Batswana appointed to FIDE commissions
Calistus Kolantsho | Thursday November 13, 2014 10:21
Maruatona has been appointed a member of the FIDE marketing commission, while BCF public relations officer, Keenese Katisenge is a councillor in the commission for women’s chess.
FIDE executive committee member and former BCF president, Tshepo Sitale is a councillor in the chess for schools commission, while Botswana Woman International Master, Tshepiso Lopang is a member of the development commission. Maruatona told Mmegi Sport that FIDE has different commissions that tackle different needs of chess globally.
He said the appointments were based on individual capabilities. He said that BCF is a model federation in Africa and its executive committee has been praised for running chess well.
Marautaona said BCF has individuals at the forefront of making sure the federation is run well. He stated that such dedication has not gone unnoticed by FIDE.
“FIDE has recognised the capabilities that we have and the value that we will add to the mother body.
We have turned things around in the country in such a way that chess is second to football when it comes to following,” said Maruatona.
Meanwhile, BCF will host the first edition of the Debswana Re Ba Bona Ha Inter Centre games over the weekend in Gaborone.
The event is targeting players aged between eight and 18. BCF spokesperson, Keenese Katisenge said they have invited primary school clubs in the country to the event. She said that BCF has two centres in Francistown and Gaborone.
“The tournament will be played under a Swiss format and children will play a total of seven rounds.
There will be different winners from the different age categories. BCF is committed to the development of chess and we place more emphasis on grassroots development,” said Katisenge.