8-year-old twin sisters shine at Africa Schools Chess Championships

Julian Royina Nyangoma and Janelle Rovenna Nyakato, 8-year-old twin sisters, have caught the attention of their coaches at the ongoing Africa Individual Schools Chess Championships in Mombasa, Kenya.

The girls, who only began playing chess as a form of therapy late last year, earned a surprise opportunity to represent Uganda in the U-9 girls' category—a bonus achievement that has thrilled both their family and mentors.

Their mother, Catherine Nalukenge Aturinda, who accompanied them to Mombasa, initially introduced them to chess to help improve their concentration.

"I was concerned about how easily Nyakato, especially, lost focus. I sought advice from fellow parents, and they recommended chess lessons," said Nalukenge. "Since they are twins, I couldn’t take one and leave the other behind."

akato and Nyangoma with their mother

In just a few months, she has witnessed a remarkable change in both girls' behavior and learning.

"I had never seen them focus on one activity for more than an hour. Chess has taught their brains how to concentrate. I’m very grateful, and even their performance in mathematics has improved," she added.

Their coach, Ceaser Addo, emphasized that chess instills critical thinking, patience, creativity, and resilience—skills that go beyond the game.

In the tournament, Nyangoma has so far scored an impressive 5 points out of a possible 7, while Nyakato has secured 3 points with two games left to play.

The twins are part of a 25-player team representing Uganda at the Africa Schools Chess Championships in Mombasa.