The Vanuatu National Chess Tournament kicked off last weekend at L’Houstalet Restaurant in Port Vila.

The exciting chess event brings together players from across the country to compete. The tournament will run for one week with a total of seven rounds, finishing this coming Saturday.

Around 20 participants are taking part in the tournament.

This event follows several other chess tournaments and competitions, including school events organized by the Chess Federation throughout the year. This month and next month mark the final tournaments of the year before a team travels to Australia.

The week-long tournament offers attractive prizes from the Federation for the winners.

Beyond the competitions, the Federation is also scouting for potential players who could join the national chess team.

Players are also preparing for the 2026 Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan.