Silverest Plaza’s journey is a blueprint for Zambian chess.
Two years ago, the club was in the B League — but unlike other clubs, *they were already sponsored handsomely.* Even when they were in the B League, Silverest showed professionalism — branded attire, organized transport, allowances and proper preparation. The sponsorship set them apart early.
The masterstroke was entering two teams (A and B), creating internal competition and depth. The B team was not a reserve — it was a shark tank that pushed the A team. The handsome sponsorship allowed them to maintain two competitive squads, which most clubs cannot afford.
In 2025, the club earned promotion to the Elite League. Many predicted relegation. Instead, backed by solid sponsorship and Chairman Benjamin Mulenga’s professional organization, they learned, recruited smartly, and kept their core.
October 26, 2026, at the Independence Cup, the statement was made: a club that was handsomely sponsored even in B League now had TWO teams in the final four of Zambia’s biggest knockout tournament — proving that investment + organization = trophies.
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All other parts remain the same:
*Chairman Benjamin Mulenga* — For his great organisational skills which led the club to be run professionally.
*Full Squad:* Justine Daka, Tito Jilowa, Augustine Mtonga, Dalitso Chisopa, FM Chola Musonda, Tebby Swatu, Kusanta Makanga, Ronald Sakala, Kiddy Makwaya, Benjamin Mulenga (Chairperson), Captain WFM Constance Mbatha, WFM Linda Shaba and Tanaka Dziyani of Zimbabwe.
*Next Game:* Silverest vs Lusaka Chess Club (IM Richmond Phiri, Capt. FM Geoffrey Luanja) — This weekend at NIPA, streamed live. If Silverest win, the Elite league will be decided on the last day of the league.