UGANDA FLAGS OFF A STRONG 18-PLAYER DELEGATION TO AFRICAN YOUTH CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP 2025 IN ZIMBABWE, HARARE
Uganda has officially flagged off an 18-player delegation led by Eng. Ojok Patrick, former General Secretary of the Uganda Chess Federation set to represent the nation at the upcoming African Youth Chess Championship in Zimbabwe, Harare set to kick off from 7th december to 13th december2025. The flag off was held at the National Council of Sports (NCS) offices on 5th December 2025.
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The selected players earned their places through their great performances at both national and international events, highlighting Uganda’s steady rise in youth chess development.
Among the standout names is Odokonyero Daniel, who secured his slot after an impressive silver medal finish in the Under-14 category at the African Individual Schools Chess Championships held in Mombasa earlier this year. His achievement signaled his readiness to compete at a higher level.
Also on the team is Ahumuza Apollo, recognized as the best junior player in the 2025 National League, signaling his competitive strength. Muhirwa Alvin, a medalist at the African Individual Schools Championships, earned his spot after excelling on the continental stage.
FM Pido Edwin, brings valuable international experience to the squad. His presence is expected to provide guidance and stability, especially for the younger members of the team.
The delegation also includes more junior talents such as:
- WFM Sana Omprakash Kayyar – Silver Medalist in the U2300 Women’s Section in the aAfrican Amateurs, recently competed in the Open category in Rwabushenyi with an impressive performance,
- Annabel Mawere Kirabo,
- Gary Noah,
- Talia Atubet- Won Bronze Africa Youth Chess championship last year in south Africa with 6.5/9 in the u10 girls section.
- Suhana Yadav, a silver medalist at the African Individual Schools Chess Championships,
- Sean Mulema, and several other rising stars who have continued to show discipline and dedication to the game.
- AFM Shoubhith Omprakash Kayyar who recently won the Gold Medal with 6/9 and earned the prestigious title of Candidate Master (CM). winning the U2000 category
Serving as guardian to the Kampala Talents and Leadership Chess (KTLC) team is Mr. Mukasa Patrick, whose role will be key in player welfare, coordination, and overall team support during the championship.
While addressing the players at the flag-off ceremony, officials from the National Council of Sports commended the team for their commitment and urged them to compete with confidence, discipline, and national pride. Parents, coaches, and officials in attendance expressed optimism that the team will not only compete but also bring honor and medals back to Uganda.
The flag-off marks another important milestone in Uganda’s chess journey and reinforces the country’s growing presence on the African youth chess scene.
As the team departs, the nation’s chess community rallies behind them, hopeful that their hard work, talent, and unity will translate into a historic performance at the championship.
Credit Samuel Were
