Building Champions
Across Africa
Founded in 2011 by FIDE Instructor Reuben Salimu, African Chess Lounge is a Cape Town chess academy developing players from beginner to national level.
Our Story
African Chess Lounge was founded by Reuben Salimu, Head Coach for Chess South Africa and Curro Durbanville, and a certified international instructor.
What began as a vision to promote chess as a tool for education and personal development has grown into a thriving community and training ground for chess lovers across Africa.
We provide a sanctuary in Durbanville where players of all levels—from curious beginners to seasoned competitors—can learn, play, and celebrate the game of chess.
Founded by
Reuben Salimu
Our Mission
To popularize chess as a tool for education and personal development while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning across the continent.
What ACL Offers
Tailored Coaching Programs
Personalized training for every student, from absolute beginners to competitive players seeking mastery.
Community Events
Local tournaments, international championships, and regular community gatherings that celebrate chess.
Educational Outreach
Workshops and seminars in schools, bringing chess education to communities across Africa.
Online Resources
Digital tutorials, podcasts, and interactive platforms for continuous learning and improvement.
Our Progressive Curriculum
A structured learning path from absolute beginner to master level, developed by FIDE-certified instructors
0–1000 ELO
Master basic rules and legal play without guidance
• Introduction, Notation & Pieces
• Understanding Each Piece
• Check, Mate & Castling
1000–1100 ELO
Accurate notation and 1-move tactics
• Piece Values & Checks
• Mate in 1 & Lawnmower Mate
• Draws & Pawn Structure
1200–1300 ELO
Core tactics and basic checkmates
• Double Attack & Pin
• K+Q / K+R Mates
• Opening Principles
1300–1400 ELO
Threat recognition and defense
• Forced Mate in 2
• K+P Endgames
• Main Opening Theory
1400–1500 ELO
Calculate short forcing lines
• Deflection, Decoy & Interference
• Multi-Pawn & Knight Endings
• Open Lines & Center Control
1500–1600 ELO
Defensive technique & evaluation
• Blockade & Strategy
• R+P vs R Endings
• Weak Squares & Space
1600–1700 ELO
Calculation accuracy & attacking
• Calculation Training
• Advanced Endgames
• Attack on the King
1700–1800 ELO
Strategic planning across phases
• Queenside Attacks
• Complex Rook Endings
• Phase Transitions
1800–1900 ELO
Prophylaxis & counterplay
• Opening Mastery
• Defense & Counterattack
• Minor Piece Endgames
1900–2000 ELO
Tournament consistency
• Deep Opening Repertoire
• Bishop vs Knight Mastery
• Converting Advantages
2000+ ELO
Elite performance & mastery
• Championship Preparation
• Advanced Strategy
• Tournament Psychology
Why Choose ACL
We combine expertise, passion, and innovation to create an unmatched chess learning experience
Expertise
Finest coaches and masters with international credentials
Passion
Deep love for chess and commitment to student success
Inclusivity
Welcoming players of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels
Innovation
Updated methods, technologies, and teaching approaches
Leadership Team
Meet the dedicated leaders guiding ACL's mission to make chess a household name across Africa
Shaun Somai
Leading ACL's strategic vision and community engagement initiatives across Africa.
Reuben Salimu
FIDE Instructor, Head Coach for Chess South Africa and Curro Durbanville. Bridges chess with education and leadership.
Liz Weideman
Managing club operations, member communications, and administrative excellence.
Reuben Salimu
Bridging Chess and Education
Reuben's philosophy extends beyond the chessboard. He collaborates with diverse groups and emphasizes leadership, coaching excellence, and educational success through chess.
FIDE Instructor
Certified international chess instructor
Head Coach
Chess South Africa & Curro Durbanville
Educator
Linking chess with life success
Our Partners
Collaborating with leading organizations to bring world-class chess education to Africa
Chess.com
Global online chess platform
Curro Durbanville
Our home and educational partner
Lichess
Free online chess server
Western Province Chess
Provincial chess federation
Chessable
Chess learning platform