The Uganda Chess Federation has announced its new team, comprising skilled and experienced individuals passionate about advancing chess in Uganda. Here’s a brief look at the team:

National Executive Committee (NEC)

1. Mr. Andrew Bakiza – President, UCF

• Corporate governance expert with a vision to elevate Ugandan chess.

1. Mr. Mande Allan Benjamin – Vice President

• Dynamic leader and skilled player (“French Crusher”) driving chess growth.

1. Mr. Okas Walter – General Secretary

• FM-rated player and fair play advocate with strong administrative skills.

1. Muwanguzi David – Treasurer, UCF

• Focused and versatile, pushing chess forward with financial expertise.

1. Nakiirya Victoria – Director, Women Affairs

• Passionate IA arbiter boosting women’s chess in Uganda.

CHESS WORKING TEAM 2026

1. Secretariat Manager Mr. Musasizi Emmanuel – A member of Lighthouse Chess Club and known for his coordination skills in chess.

1. Technical Director Mr. Etyangat Augustine – A skilled chess arbiter that chess Uganda is blessed to have. He holds the FA title.

1. National Coach Mr. Ssonko Mathias Allan – Seasoned player and Great coach to many chess stars in Uganda.

1. Publicity Secretary Mr. Kalule Caxton brings great experience to the office. Having served before in 2017-2021 in the same office.

1. Director for Chess Development Mr. Kalugo George William – he brings in New energy to the development of chess.

1. Chairperson Chess in Education Mr. Ntumwa Calvin – He is a young energetic and brings in new ideas in chess education.

1. Coordinator Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Mr. Mugwanya Wilson – He has worked with the differently able and alot is expected from him.

1. Accountant Mr. Masiko Ezekiel – former UCF Treasurer that is also a certified Accountant.

1. IT Support Mr Mugisha Ivan – He is an IT coder and teacher, he best suits the occasion.

Assistants

1. Assistant National Coach Ms. Nalunga Sandra Esther – with a woman coach, she will be a great complement to the team.

1. Assistant Publicity Secretary Mr. Mbabani Allan – Allan is a posting personality, the publicity office is blessed to have him.

1. Assistant Director for Chess Development Ms. Nanozi Peninah Esther – She is a great coordinator behind women in chess.

1. Assistant Chairperson Chess in Education, Ms. Mukisa Glory Bbumba – She holds many offices and proven to be resourceful.

1. Assistant Coordinator PWDs Mr. Mugambwa Julius – Julius has many gifts and will be a great resource in assisting the office.

The Uganda Chess Federation’s new leadership team is poised to drive growth and excellence in Ugandan chess. With a blend of experienced leaders and fresh talent, they’re set to boost development, inclusivity, and competitive performance. Here’s to a successful tenure for the NEC and Chess Working Team 2026! 😊

The leadership of Chess Uganda is entering a pivotal era, structured into a collaborative hierarchy designed to elevate the sport to unprecedented heights. This new administration is organized into three distinct pillars: the National Executive Committee (NEC), which provides strategic oversight; the Secretariat, which handles the day-to-day administrative engine; and a dedicated team of Assistants who ensure operational fluidity.

The Road Ahead
To truly “checkmate” the obstacles facing Ugandan chess, this team must cultivate a level of resilience that surpasses previous administrations. While the former executive laid the groundwork, the current leadership faces the daunting task of:

Securing sustainable funding for international tournaments.

Expanding grassroots programs across all regions of Uganda.

Digitalizing player ratings and tournament management.

By bridging the gap between the old executive’s legacy and modern professional standards, this multi-tiered team aims to transform Uganda into a dominant powerhouse on the African chess circuit.