Uganda’s Omprakash receives hero’s welcome after African Youth Chess triumph

Uganda’s newly crowned African Youth Chess Champion, Sana Omprakash, was given a rousing hero’s welcome on Monday evening upon her return from the recently concluded African Youth Chess Championships.

The U18 gold medallist and newly titled Woman International Master (WIM) touched down at Entebbe International Airport at around 7:30pm, accompanied by her brother Soubith Omprakash, who also made the nation proud by winning bronze in the U16 Open category. The siblings travelled with their mother, Seretha Omprakash, who supported Team Uganda in a parental role.

Celebrations erupted at the airport as officials from the Uganda Chess Federation (UCF), led by incoming Secretary for Women’s Affairs Victoria Nakiirya, joined Sana’s family and members of the local chess fraternity to welcome the champions.

The terminal came alive with traditional music and dance as supporters gathered to honour Uganda’s newest continental title holder.

Overwhelmed by the reception, Sana expressed heartfelt gratitude, admitting she had not expected such an outpouring of love and recognition.

Uganda concluded the championship in third place overall, securing a historic six medals, one gold, two silver, and three bronze — marking the country’s best-ever performance at the African Youth Chess Championships.

The rest of the Ugandan contingent, including other medallists and accompanying parents, is expected to arrive later this morning aboard Uganda Airlines.