Visa woes dash Ugandan pupils’ World Chess dreams

Uganda’s chess fraternity has suffered a major setback as three junior school teams were ruled out of the upcoming World Schools Chess Championships, set for August 2–8 in Washington, D.C., USA.

The disappointment is especially felt among the Ghetto chess community in Kamwokya, where hopes were high. The teams, which had qualified to represent Uganda, were informed last week by the event organizers that their registration could not proceed due to full slots.

“They told us that the Ugandan schools couldn’t be accommodated anymore,” said Bright Muke, who heads school chess programs at the Uganda Chess Federation (UCF).

“We submitted all the required documents on time, but were let down at the last minute.”

He added that while logistics were handled diligently, tightened U.S. visa protocols may have indirectly impacted the teams’ chances.

Kamwokya Teens Life Chess Academy (KTLCA) coach, Patrick Mukasa, expressed his heartbreak over the missed opportunity.

“Our players were well-prepared and ready to shine on the global stage. The disappointment is real—but I also suspect the recent visa challenges from the host country played a role,” said Mukasa.

The KTLCA contingent included five young talents—Ronald Wabwire, Juliet Asaba, Daniel Odokonyero, Elvis Tumusiime, and Trevor Tumukunde—alongside three team officials.

Mukasa urged the players not to be discouraged and instead turn their focus toward the upcoming All-Africa Youth Championships in Zimbabwe this November.

“We have 21 qualifiers from KTLCA. Now we’re fundraising to help these ghetto kids showcase their talent beyond Uganda,” he emphasized.

Despite this setback, Uganda's history in youth chess remains strong. In 2023, pupils from Peak Primary School successfully represented the country at the global championships in Aktau, Kazakhstan.