Team Uganda in Kazakhstan for World Schools Team Chess Championships

Uganda has sent nine players from two schools to represent the county in the inaugural World Schools Team Chess Championships that starts today in Aktau in Kazakhstan to August 8.

Uganda Chess Federation (UCF) selected Friends International Christian Academy for the boys and Peak Primary School for the girls to represent the country.

These are the under-12 teams that won in their age categories in the 2023 Fr. Grimes National Schools Chess Championships in May this year at St. Mary’s College Kisubi.

The two teams were flagged off on Monday 31 before they departed for the tournament at the National Council of Sports offices in Lugogo by Ag. General Secretary Oluga Joseph urged them to be courageous and to fly the Ugandan flag high at the world chess event.

“I know you will be playing against the top-ranked countries in the world but I urge you to be strong and courageous; do not be afraid. This is a great opportunity for you to test yourselves against the top chess players in the world and I know you will make us proud,” said Oluga as he flagged off the team.

The contingent that is headed by the general secretary of UCF, Patrick Ojok has four boys and five girls with coach and captain Glory Mukisa Bbumba.

“FIDE asked us to chose one team they will sponsor fully and we chose the girls' team. The boys’ team is to be facilitated by parents and we are very grateful,” Ojok noted.

A total of 27 teams from around the world will be competing in the World Schools Chess Championship - U12 category including top-ranked teams from India, Kazakhstan, Belgium, Mexico, and Spain among others. Africa will be represented in the tournament by Madagascar, Uganda, Botswana, and Nigeria.