MBABANE – Living Waters Primary School have made it four in a row as they were crowned champions of the Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) Chess Festival once again.
The latest triumph came on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at The George Hotel in Manzini, where the school sealed yet another overall victory to extend their remarkable run of dominance.
According to a report from the tournament organisers, the path to the title was far from plain sailing for the reigning champions. Living Waters suffered a setback in Round 7 when they dropped points to their arch-rivals, Enjabulweni Schools, across Groups A and B.
However, the Chimanikire brothers, Joseph and Zamar, stepped up when it mattered most. The pair sparked a strong recovery that saw Living Waters overpower the rest of the field and reclaim the top spot.
Enjabulweni put up a determined fight throughout the competition and finished as runners-up to collect the silver medal. Jabulile Primary School produced one of the standout performances of the tournament. After years of finishing fourth and fifth, they finally broke onto the podium in third place — a result that brought great joy to their coach and school principal.
The Tournament Director William Siame praised all nine participating schools for their endurance and commitment right through to the final round. Siame also singled out Living Waters for taking the sport seriously by hosting the event at the prestigious The George Hotel, describing it as a sign of how chess continues to grow into a major sport in the country.
Final standings:
1. Living Waters Primary School – 62 points
2. Enjabulweni Independent School – 54 points
3. Jabulile Primary School – 49.5 points
4. Ubombo Primary School – 46.5
5. Hlanganani Primary School – 41.5 points
6. Imbuyiselo Primary School – 32.5 points
7 Khanyisile Primary School – 26.5 points
8. Sifundzani Primary School – 22.5 points
9. Premier Independent School – 16 points
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