Vanuatu Chess Federation is hosting its fourth chess tournament this week at Grand Hotel, with world-renowned Grandmaster Hou Yifan joining the special event in Port Vila.

Hou Yifan, a four-time Women’s World Chess Champion, is currently the highest-rated active female chess player in the world and is recognised as one of the greatest female chess players in history.

Her participation has given local chess players the opportunity to compete against and meet one of the world’s top chess talents.

The tournament includes prizes for the winners, with players from Vanuatu taking part in the competition.

The Vanuatu Chess Federation says having Hou Yifan attend the event is a significant moment for the development and promotion of chess in the country.

The Grandmaster’s visit forms part of efforts to inspire local players and encourage greater participation in chess competitions across Vanuatu.