Premier Bet Uganda Chess League 2025 Kicks Off with Record Turnout and UGX 10M Prize Boost

The much-anticipated 2025 Premier Bet Uganda Chess League has officially commenced with classical chess at the SOM Chess Academy Arena in Katwe, Makindye Division, Kampala. The event, which stands as the biggest tournament on the Uganda Chess Federation calendar, has drawn in record participation with 56 clubs and over 500 players from all corners of Uganda and the greater East African region.

In a landmark development for the league, Premier Bet Uganda the event’s title sponsor has increased the top prize from UGX 3,500,000 to UGX 10,000,000, significantly elevating the stakes and drawing attention from across the continent. This increment signals not only enhanced prestige for the league but also a commitment to chess development in Uganda and East Africa.

The 2025 edition has grown into an international attraction, welcoming teams and players from Kenya, Somalia, and South Sudan, making it a truly regional event. The tournament is being conducted as a FIDE-rated 12-round Swiss system, with matches held every Sunday at the vibrant SOM Arena.

In his opening remarks, Uganda Chess Federation (UCF) President Emmanuel Mwaka expressed optimism and excitement:

“The 2025 Uganda Chess League officially started, and it was a perfect day. We expect great match days ahead as more teams join in. This is the biggest and most competitive event on our calendar, and we are proud to welcome top players from Uganda and neighboring countries.”

Kireka Chess Club, the defending champions and highest-ranked club in Uganda, return to defend their crown amidst a field of strong challengers. Known for their consistency and depth, Kireka faces stiff competition from powerhouses such as SOM Katwe, Mulago Kings, and new contenders from across Uganda’s districts and international teams.

The league has already shown signs of unpredictability and intensity, making every round a battle. Clubs have strengthened their rosters, and with only one classical game played per matchday, each encounter carries immense weight

The league is organized under strict FIDE guidelines, featuring:

• 12 rounds in a single open section.
• 90+30 time control for classical games; 15+10 for rapid; 3+2 for blitz.
• 6 boards per team:
  • Board 5 reserved for U16 players,
  • Board 6 exclusively for female players.
• No early draw offers (before Black’s 30th move), promoting fighting chess.
• Strict dress code and mandatory club uniforms to enhance professionalism and branding.
• Certificates for all participants and medals for the top three players per board.

Beyond national prestige, the top teams will:

• Represent Uganda at the 2026 African Club Chess Championships and World Rapid & Blitz Team Championships.
• Receive rotational trophies, medals, and certificates.
• Be celebrated on the national stage as ambassadors of Ugandan chess excellence.

Chess fans can follow the games live on Lichess Broadcast and view standings and player statistics on Chess-Results.

As the 2025 Premier Bet Uganda Chess League unfolds, it promises to deliver high-quality, competitive chess and showcase the rising strength of East African chess. With passion, young talent coming up, and clubs striving to be the best, all eyes are now on Katwe as the chessboards light up Uganda’s Sundays on every fortnight.

Let the battle begin and may the best team win.

For sponsorship, partnerships, or inquiries, contact the Uganda Chess Federation at ugandachess@yahoo.com.

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Credit: Samuel Were

Photo Credit : Ivan Mukuye