The Ghana Prisons Service has recorded a major achievement on the international stage after inmates from the Nsawam Female Prison emerged champions in the female category of the continental “Chess for Freedom” tournament, while inmates from the Nsawam Medium Security Prison placed second in the men’s division.
The competition, held under the global “Chess for Freedom” initiative, brought together participants from 18 African countries and featured three categories: youth, female and men’s divisions.
In a statement, the Ghana Prisons Service added that Ghana also excelled in the youth category, where inmates from the Senior Correctional Centre retained their title by finishing first and second.
The initiative was introduced through the efforts of Mentors Chess Academy, which has been using chess as a rehabilitation tool within correctional facilities to promote discipline, critical thinking, reform, and social reintegration among inmates.
According to the Prisons Administration, inmates underwent regular training and coaching sessions that helped sharpen their skills ahead of the international competition.
At the Second Continental Online Chess Championships for Prisoners, inmates from the Nsawam Medium Security Prison represented Ghana in the men’s category, playing seven matches against competitors from across the continent.
Their strong performance earned Ghana a second-place finish in its first appearance in the category, securing qualification to the upcoming World Prison Chess Championship.
In another remarkable feat, inmates from the Nsawam Female Prison defeated competitors from Zimbabwe, Namibia, Kenya and Malawi during a live international tournament held on May 12, 2026.
Their victory secured first place in the female category and earned them the opportunity to represent Africa at the Intercontinental Live Chess Competition scheduled for October 2026.
The Ghana Prisons Service has praised Mentors Chess Academy for its dedication and support, describing the achievement as proof that correctional institutions can help nurture talent, discipline, and personal transformation.
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