German pledges support for chess in Uganda

German Ambassador Peter Blomeyer has promised a long term relationship with the chess fraternity in Uganda.

Blomeyer was speaking at a press conference at the SOM Chess Academy Seminar that kicked off on Friday at Pope Paul Memorial in Kampala.

He revealed that he intends to transform the lives of Ugandan children through chess as he works hand in hand with the founder of SOM chess academy, Robert Katende at the three day Germany funded event.

"I am so impressed by the great work done by Katende and as German Embassy Kampala, we have come out to work with him to better the lives of underprivileged children as we grow the game of chess in Uganda," Blomeyer said

"Our long term relationship with chess in Uganda has just started."

The event was graced by the German Grand Master (GM) Thomas Luther who will be coaching the participants as well as equipping them with knowledge on chess.

Katende who happens to be the organizer of the event also told New Vision that the interaction between GM Luther and the 80 participants who attended the event is aimed at grooming the future GMs in Uganda.

"It is true that the players will interact with the GM for a short time,however it will be worthwhile. I have a strong belief that whoever will take this seminar seriously stands a chance to attain the highest rank (GM) in chess in the future," Said Katende

Queen of Katwe's Phionah Mutesi, Joshua Katumba and Benittah Naddya were some of the chess players who attended the event that concludes on Sunday.