Arthur Ssegwanyi Dominates Rwabushenyi Memorial Chess Tournament with a Perfect 8/8
The 2024 Rwabushenyi Memorial Chess Tournament concluded in spectacular fashion as Arthur Ssegwanyi wins the title with an 8/8 score, a reflection of his dominance in one of Uganda’s most prestigious chess events. Ssegwanyi’s triumph further solidifies his reputation as one of the country’s top chess players.
In second place, Mugaga Allan, a rising star from Makerere University, stunned the chess community with his outstanding performance. He scored 7/8, including impressive victories over higher-rated players like FM Haruna Kamoga and Gonza Simon, proving that his potential is one to watch in the future. Nsubuga Haruna secured third place with 6.5/8, rounding off a highly competitive Open category.
In the Ladies’ category, WCM Kawuma Patria delivered an unparalleled performance, winning all her games to finish with a perfect 8/8 score. Shakira Ampaire claimed second place with 6 points, while Ahereza Joan finished third with 5.5 points.
The tournament also highlighted promising juniors such as Mwase Mathew, Zuri, and Muhirwa, who all delivered exceptional performances, hinting at a bright future for Ugandan chess.
The tournament saw fierce competition in the age and rating categories. In the U1600 category, Muruhura Rick Andrew emerged victorious with 4.5 points, while Mboowa Shadick claimed the U1700 title with 5 points. Dahir Bashir took the U1800 category with 6 points, and Mugisha Jalagatha won the U1900 section, also with 6 points.
In the Ladies’ age and rating categories, Suhana Anil Yadov won the U1500 section with 5 points, Babirye Audrey claimed the U1600 title with 5 points, and Naisanga Sheba secured the U1700 category with 5 points.
Honoring Cyril Rwabushenyi’s Legacy
The tournament holds a special place in Uganda’s chess calendar as it commemorates the life and contributions of Cyril Rwabushenyi, a former chairman of the Uganda Chess Federation (UCF). Rwabushenyi, who served from 1996 to 1998, was a pivotal figure in promoting chess among Uganda’s youth.
During his tenure, Rwabushenyi prioritized schools’ development programs, such as the Fr. Grimes Schools Championship, which unearthed talents like Stephen Kawuma, Grace Nsubuga, Steven Opio, and Shaddrack Kantinti. A true visionary, he emphasized grassroots development and left a legacy that continues to inspire Uganda’s chess community.
Rwabushenyi also served as Director of Airports and Aviation Security at the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and is remembered as a motivator and mentor. His influence was evident during the tournament’s closing ceremony, where the Rwabushenyi family joined participants and officials to honor his memory.
The defending champion, Eng. Mwaka Emmanuel, who is also the current UCF president, spoke at the ceremony, praising Rwabushenyi’s contributions to the growth of chess in Uganda.
A Celebration of Excellence
The Rwabushenyi Memorial Tournament not only celebrated the brilliance of players like Ssegwanyi and WCM Kawuma but also paid tribute to a man whose dedication helped shape the landscape of chess in Uganda. With rising stars like Mugaga Allan and promising juniors emerging, the future of Ugandan chess looks as bright as ever.
credit Samuel Were
photo credit Ivan Mukuye
