Mamello Rakotsoane
Lesotho’s chess is showing encouraging signs of growth and competitiveness, with the Chess Federation of Lesotho (CFL) pointing to the recent international results as clear evidence of the country’s rapid development in the sport.
Batloung Lesala (under 16) and Thato Moorosi (under 14) took part in the Susan 50 Chess Championship, which took place in Lilongwe, Malawi from 26 – 30 March 2026.
Moorosi dominated the under 14 Section, claiming first prize with a whopping 5/7 points. He walked away with, a free Air Ticket to Uganda for the 2026 AYCC in May, gold medal, trophy, chess set, and a one full year mentorship and training scholarship.
Lesela on the other hand tied with Margret- Zambia’s Rapid and Blitz Champ at 5.5/7 rounds in the Under 16 section and won third place prize. He walked away with a smart watch, gift of Chess Chess Set, bronze medal, and a one year mentorship and training scholarship.
Reacting to the duo’s performance, the federation has described Team Lesotho’s latest performance on the global stage as a historic breakthrough, underlining the progress made through sustained grassroots programmes, school competitions and structured player development pathways.
Lieketseng Makhalamele, CFL’s Public Relations Officer said the results marked a significant milestone for local chess, reflecting years of deliberate investment in nurturing young talent.
“This is the first time in the history of chess in Lesotho that we have seen such a performance at an international tournament. It is both commendable and deeply encouraging,” Makhalamele said.
The achievement is being viewed as validation of the federation’s long-term strategy, which has focused on building a strong foundation through junior development, regional competitions and early exposure to competitive play.
According to the CFL, Lesotho is now beginning to position itself as an emerging force in youth chess across Africa, with its development structures increasingly producing players capable of competing at international level.
The federation praised the team for displaying discipline, professionalism and mental strength—qualities seen as critical to sustaining the country’s upward trajectory in the sport.
“They demonstrated resilience, composure and a growing tactical maturity. Their conduct and work ethic reflect the values we are striving to instill in all our players,” Makhalamele said.
Leading the charge was Thato Moorosi, whose dominant performance saw him secure top honours with five points out of seven, highlighting the calibre of talent now emerging from Lesotho’s chess system.
Makhalamele said Moorosi’s composure under pressure and technical precision, particularly in the endgame, showcased the benefits of improved training structures and competitive exposure.
The result is expected to open further opportunities for Moorosi at higher levels, cementing his status as one of the country’s brightest prospects.
Batloung Lesela also delivered a strong showing, finishing third overall after tiebreaks despite tying for second place, another indicator of the growing depth of talent within Lesotho’s chess ranks.
Makhalamele noted that Lesela’s performance reflected consistency, strong preparation and strategic awareness, attributes increasingly evident among local players.
In a major boost to development, both Moorosi and Lesela have secured a year-long mentorship under a Grandmaster in India, a move expected to accelerate their growth and expose them to elite-level training environments.
The programme is set to enhance their technical knowledge, deepen their understanding of advanced strategies and introduce them to professional chess culture, key components in bridging the gap between local and international standards.
The federation has already begun preparations for the African Youth Chess Championship 2026 in Uganda, where Lesotho aims to build on its recent success and further assert its presence on the continental stage.
Plans include intensive training camps, performance analysis sessions and expanded mentorship support, reflecting a more structured and ambitious approach to international competition.
Makhalamele emphasised that school-based chess initiatives remain central to the country’s progress, serving as the primary pipeline for talent identification and development.
“This success underscores that junior chess in Lesotho is on a promising trajectory. The foundation is now visibly strong, but we must continue building on it,” she said.
Despite the strides made, challenges persist, particularly around funding and logistics. The federation noted that financial constraints continue to affect travel, preparation and participation in international events.
Makhalamele said overcoming these hurdles makes the team’s recent achievements even more significant, highlighting the determination of players and administrators alike.
As Lesotho looks ahead to Uganda 2026 and other international assignments, the CFL has called for increased support from sponsors and institutions to sustain the sport’s growth.
“Sponsorship is not merely financial support; it is an investment in national pride, youth development and the intellectual future of Lesotho,” Makhalamele said.
With a stronger development pipeline, rising young stars and increasing international exposure, Lesotho’s chess is steadily gaining momentum, signalling a promising future for the sport in the Mountain Kingdom.
Summary
- Lesotho’s chess is showing encouraging signs of growth and competitiveness, with the Chess Federation of Lesotho (CFL) pointing to the recent international results as clear evidence of the country’s rapid development in the sport.
- “This is the first time in the history of chess in Lesotho that we have seen such a performance at an international tournament.
- In a major boost to development, both Moorosi and Lesela have secured a year-long mentorship under a Grandmaster in India, a move expected to accelerate their growth and expose them to elite-level training environments.
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