ACC president Tshepiso hails parents and UCF for successful AYCC

Tshepiso Lopang, president of the Africa Chess Confederation, thanked parents and the Uganda Chess Federation (UCF) for their dedication, which was vital to the success of the 17th Africa Youth Chess Championships held in Entebbe from May 14 to 23.

During the closing ceremony, Lopang recognised parents as key contributors to the sport and praised their support in providing coaching, travel, and accommodation for their children.

“It is very important as sports leaders to partner with parents. Alone, we cannot achieve anything,” Lopang noted. 

She also emphasised the importance of discipline among young players, urging them to respect and value their teammates.

Kenya Chess Federation president Bernard Wanjala highlighted that both the Africa Chess Confederation and Chess Kenya are celebrating their 50th anniversaries, as they were established in 1976.

South African Tristan Arries (left) takes on Uganda's Elvis Tumusiime (right) during during the Africa Youth Chess Championship at the Imperial Botanical Beach Hotel, May 20, 2026. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

Wanjala described this championship as the largest and best-organised Africa Youth Chess Championship, with over 1,000 participants from across the continent. He noted that the introduction of rapid and blitz sections increased excitement and opportunities for young players.

 Wanjala encouraged chess leaders to seek partners and sponsors to support youth development and help them compete internationally. He commended all participants for representing their countries with pride and encouraged them to continue believing in themselves. Kenneth Mwebaze, Mayor of Division A, Entebbe Municipality, congratulated all teams and participants.

“You have demonstrated determination, discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the competition. Regardless of trophies, each of you is a champion for participating with courage and passion,” Mwebaze said.

“Congratulations to our winners on your achievements. Your hard work and commitment have paid off. For those who did not win, do not lose hope. Every competition is a lesson, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger. So, I extend my sincere appreciation to the organisers, coaches, referees, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters who made this tournament a success. Your effort, time and dedication made this event possible. Most importantly, this tournament was not only about winning games. It was about bringing young people together, building friendships, promoting unity and encouraging discipline and talent among the youth. The energy, joy and teamwork you have witnessed here show that our future is bright. As we close this tournament, let us carry forward the spirit of sportsmanship, respect and unity. The Member of Parliament for Entebbe Municipality, Shyaka Stephen Gashaija, noted that games foster unity, friendship, and cooperation, and also stimulate the mind to think. 

“I want to encourage you, let's keep on uniting on such events, let's keep on standing tall as Africa and tomorrow we shall be in better competitions and Africa's flag will stand higAndrew Bakiza, president of the Uganda Chess Federation, emphasised that chess thrives through collective effort. “Thank you for your presence here. To the players, you dedicated your time over the past few days and showed esteem, respect, and pride for your families,” Bakiza stated. “Whether you leave with a medal or not, you are always a winner because you gave your best.” He also thanked partners and sponsors for their support of UCF. UCF.

Milton Chebet, Assistant General Secretary-Technical at the National Council of Sports, commended the visiting teams for their participation and contribution to the event’s success. He encouraged UCF to host more such events to boost sports tourism.

“I congratulate the Chess Federation, Africa Chess Confederation, sponsors, volunteers, officials, partners, and hotel management for their commitment throughout this successful tournament,” Chebet said. 

“Over the past few days, we have witnessed remarkable displays of intelligence, patience, and creativity from the young participants. Chess is more than a game; it is a powerful educational tool. We should ensure mind games are taught in lower secondary schools, as is done in Kenya, and we will support this initiative. Every move made during the championship reflected careful analysis, foresight, and courage. These are values our young people should carry into their education, careers, and future leadership. The future belongs to them, and I congratulate you for guiding them.”