The future of Ugandan chess shone this past weekend as over 300 young talents converged for the National Junior Chess Championship of the year. Under the new executive led by the dynamic Mr. Bakiza Andrew, this tournament was a testament to the growing passion and dedication within the Ugandan chess community. The atmosphere was electric, the competition fierce, and the venue, more spacious and exotic than ever before, provided a fitting stage for these budding grandmasters.

From the youngest U8 prodigies to the seasoned U20 contenders, every category was hotly contested. Many new faces graced the boards, indicating a healthy influx of fresh talent into the sport. The meticulous organization was spearheaded by the esteemed Chief Arbiter, IA Chris Turyahabwe, who worked seamlessly with the newly minted IA Vicky Nakiirya. It was also a welcome sight to witness the return of familiar faces like FA Twinamatsiko, adding to the rich tapestry of the event.

The tournament witnessed a significant changing of the guard at the top. Defending champion Kasozi Jovan, a formidable force in junior chess, saw his reign come to an end. The crown now belongs to the rising star, Baguma Innocent, who absolutely dominated his field in the U16 category with a stunning 7.5 points! This remarkable achievement makes Baguma the youngest-ever junior national champion, a true testament to his talent and hard work.

Not to be outdone, WIM Sana Omprakash Kayyar continued her incredible run in the girls’ section, also crushing her category with an equally impressive 7.5 points. This victory marks a phenomenal hat-trick for Sana, securing her third consecutive national junior title – a truly remarkable feat that solidifies her position as a dominant force in Ugandan junior chess.

Addressing the enthusiastic participants, parents, and coaches, Chess President Mr. Bakiza Andrew expressed his heartfelt gratitude. He acknowledged the ongoing transition within the chess power structures, noting that while the new executive is forging ahead, some equipment from the old guard is still being integrated. However, his message was overwhelmingly positive: “The future of chess is bright,” he declared, emphasizing the executive’s commitment to increased investment in junior development.

Ladies Section (Even Years)

• Under 08 (U08)
  • Gold: Psalm Nicole Tamale
  • Silver: Mbabazi Jacinta
  • Bronze: Marie Esiana Efata
• Under 10 (U10)
  • Gold: Janelle Rovenna Nyakato Aturinda
  • Silver: Edinansi Melisa
  • Bronze: Keza Kyla Bugingo
• Under 12 (U12)
  • Gold: Talia Atubet
  • Silver: Iculet Chanelle Manuela Okurut
  • Bronze: Tosha Torana
• Under 14 (U14)
  • Gold: WCM Juliet Asaba
  • Silver: Muganzi Ruth Thelma Lukanga
  • Bronze: Suhana Anil Yadav
• Under 16 (U16)
  • Gold: Asiimwe Olivia
  • Silver: Nyatia Aimee Ahumuza
  • Bronze: Namukobe Suzan
• Under 18 (U18)
  • Gold: WIM Sana Omprakash Kayyar
  • Silver: Nakatudde Mackline
  • Bronze: Atella Patience Angel
• Under 20 (U20)
  • Gold: Hannah Zion Mawejje
  • Silver: Nabaggala Vanessa
  • Bronze: Namakula Reigner

Open Section (Even Years)

• Under 08 (U08)
  • Gold: Matayo Barigye
  • Silver: Kaweesi Samuel
  • Bronze: Mulema Sean Wavamunno
• Under 10 (U10)
  • Gold: Tumusiime Elvis
  • Silver: Tumusiime Francis
  • Bronze: Abigaba Abba
• Under 12 (U12)
  • Gold: Wabwire Ronald
  • Silver: Turyatemba Augustine
  • Bronze: Bakulumpagi Noah
• Under 14 (U14)
  • Gold: Odokonyero Daniel
  • Silver: Edel Edwin
  • Bronze: Okurut Martin Kingsley
• Under 16 (U16)
  • Gold: Baguma Innocent
  • Silver: Muhirwa Alvin
  • Bronze: Shoubhith Omprakash Kayyar
• Under 18 (U18)
  • Gold: Mwase Arthur
  • Silver: Lwanga Edmond
  • Bronze: Murungi Daron Aaron
• Under 20 (U20)
  • Gold: Muhebwa Shafik
  • Silver: Tulinaye Osborn
  • Bronze: Mwase Matthew

Indeed, the pathway for these young champions is already clear. The winners of this junior event have earned a coveted slot to compete for national team placements next weekend at the end of the month, a truly inspiring incentive for their dedication.

A special thanks was extended to the tireless coaches and dedicated parents who went above and beyond, mobilizing students from various schools and ensuring their participation. Their unwavering support and belief in these young talents are truly the backbone of Ugandan chess.

This championship was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of intellect, sportsmanship, and the bright future of chess in Uganda. With such promising young talent and dedicated leadership, the journey ahead promises even greater triumphs for Ugandan chess on both the national and international stages.

Special thanks to the Partners and Sponsors.

6. Organizations and Media

• SOM Chess Academy
• Tv One
• Housing Finance Bank
• Duya Discoveries Uganda

5. Mukalazi Bold

4. Kiberu Peter

3. Wanyama Harold

2. Fugee Tunwesigye

1. Alfred Agaba Brian

Here’s a glimpse of our champions:

Open Section (Boys Winners) | Category | Name | Score | | :— | :— | :— | | U08 | Matayo Barigye | 4 pts | | U10 | Musiime Elvis | 6 pts | | U12 | Wabwire Ronald | 5½ pts | | U14 | Odokonyero Daniel | 6½ pts | | U16 | Baguma Innocent | 7½ pts | | U18 | Mwase Arthur | 7 pts | | U20 | Muhebwa Shafik | 7 pts |

Ladies Section (Girls Winners) | Category | Name | Score | | :— | :— | :— | | U08 | Psalm Nicole Tamale | 5 pts | | U10 | Janelle Rovenna Nyakato Aturinda | 5 pts | | U12 | Talia Atubet | 6 pts | | U14 | WCM Asaba Juliet | 6 pts | | U16 | Asiimwe Olivia | 6 pts | | U18 | WIM Sana Omprakash Kayyar | 7½ pts | | U20 | Hannah Zion Mawejje | 6 pts |

Closing Ceremony pics. Photo credit to Arthur Mukunya and Allan Mbabani of Bani Chess Bulletin

Congratulations to all the participants and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this event a resounding success!

Some of the unforgettable games of the tournament.