History is being made at the ongoing 2025 African Amateur Individual Chess Championship, as the African Chess Confederation (ACC) proudly appoints Mona El-Laboudy as the tournament’s Chief Arbiter.
For the first time in many years, a woman will lead officiation at an ACC event an appointment that is both symbolic and inspirational. Mona’s rise is a reflection not only of her personal dedication to the game, but also of the Confederation’s growing commitment to ensuring that women arbiters have the opportunity to serve at the highest levels of African and global chess.
The timing could not be more perfect. This milestone comes as the chess world is celebrating FIDE Social Chess Women’s Month, a global initiative recognizing the impact of women in chess and advocating for greater inclusivity. By appointing Ms. El-Laboudy, the ACC has sent a clear message: women are not just participants in the chess ecosystem, but leaders shaping its future.
The ACC Executive has been working tirelessly to create opportunities for women in arbitration. Through mentorship, training programs, and access to international events, the Confederation is laying down pathways for more women to obtain the titles and norms required to serve as Chief Arbiters at both continental and world level competitions.
Reflecting on this landmark appointment, ACC President Tshepiso Lopang said:
“The appointment of Mona El-Laboudy as Chief Arbiter is both timely and symbolic. It highlights the growing strength of women in African chess and aligns perfectly with the spirit of FIDE Social Chess Women’s Month. The ACC is determined to create more opportunities for women arbiters and officials to lead at the highest level, and this appointment is a powerful step in that direction.”
As Mona El-Laboudy prepares to take her place at the helm of officiation in this year’s Championship, her appointment stands as both a recognition of excellence and a promise of what is possible when inclusivity is embraced. It is a story of progress, of doors opening, and of a future where women in African chess continue to rise one move at a time.
