More than 170 players battled for national honours as Providence Oatlhotse and Onkemetse Francis claimed Botswana’s premier chess titles.
GAZETTE REPORTER
International Master Providence Oatlhotse and Woman International Master Onkemetse Francis were crowned winners of the 2026 BetXplosion National Chess Championship after five days of competition at Livingstone Kolobeng College in Block 8, Gaborone.
Held during the President’s Holidays from July 17 to 21, the championship attracted more than 170 players from across Botswana, including established competitors and emerging talent.
Oatlhotse won the Open Section and received P15,000, while Francis claimed the Women’s Section title and P10,000.
Motunge Gaolathe finished second in the Open Section, followed by Mokwena Kingsley in third. In the Women’s Section, Woman FIDE Master Natalie Banda took second place, while Woman Candidate Master Maya Otimile finished third.
The field also included FIDE Master Ignatius Njobvu, Candidate Master Ndawana Mosenya, Ofentse Molale, Kenneth Boikhutshwane, Candidate Master Tebogo Pitlagano and Bojosi Sabure.
FIERCE BATTLES
Botswana Chess Federation spokesperson Goitsemodimo Makgatle said the championship demonstrated the continued growth of chess through the quality of competition over the five days.
“The standard of play witnessed throughout the championship was exceptional. We saw experienced players, young talents and seasoned legends competing at a very high level, which is encouraging for the future of Botswana chess. Every round produced exciting battles, demonstrating the depth of talent that exists in our country,” she said.
SPONSOR BACKING
BetXplosion sponsored the championship with P184,000, providing prize money across the tournament.
Makgatle said the sponsorship was instrumental in delivering a successful event and acknowledged the players, arbiters, organisers and volunteers.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to all the players, arbiters, organisers and volunteers who worked tirelessly to deliver a successful championship. Most importantly, we are grateful to BetXplosion for sponsoring this event with P184,000. Their support continues to play a significant role in developing chess and creating opportunities for our players to compete at the highest level,” she said.
The championship brought together Botswana’s leading players and emerging talents, underlining the growing depth of the sport.