Sana Omprakash Breaks the 2000 Elo Barrier, Sets Historic Record for East and Central Africa
Ugandan chess prodigy Sana Omprakash has stamped her name permanently into the history of African chess after delivering a great performance at the Rwabusheny Memorial Open Chess Tournament, held from 20th to 23rd November 2025 at the SOM Arena.
Competing boldly in the Open Category, Sana faced a field dominated by seasoned and higher rated players. Displaying exceptional composure, deep preparation, and fighting spirit, she emerged joint third overall, defeating several strong opponents along the way. Her outstanding performance earned her an impressive +28 Elo rating gain, propelling her rating to 2012 Elo and decisively pushing her beyond the coveted 2000 rating mark.
This achievement is unprecedented. Sana Omprakash becomes the first player in the history of East and Central Africa to cross the 2000 Elo barrier at her age, setting a benchmark that stands as both a regional milestone and a powerful statement of what disciplined training can achieve.
Now rated 2012, Sana has not only reached a historic peak but has also established a record that only she herself may be capable of surpassing, given the intensity, focus, and consistency she has invested in her chess development over the years. Her rise reflects years of sacrifice, structured training, and resilience.
Born on 19th November 2008, Sana is just 17 years old and already carries the prestigious title of Woman FIDE Master (WFM), which she earned during the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary, in September 2024 while representing Uganda.
As her journey continues, Sana is set to represent Uganda at the 2025 African Youth Chess Championship, where expectations are high and her recent form places her among the continent’s best young contenders. Her performance at the Rwabushenyi Memorial Open has sent a clear message: a new era of Ugandan and African chess excellence has arrived.
Sana Omprakash’s is an inspiration to young players across the region and a powerful testament to the growing strength of chess in Uganda and Africa at large.
Credit Samuel Were
