Wanyange Girls Secondary School and Gayaza Junior School have emerged overall champions of the inaugural KCB Schools Chess Tournament held at Kampala Parents School.
The competition attracted 830 learners from 77 schools across Uganda, making it one of the country’s largest school chess events.
Participants aged between six and 20 competed in the Under-6, Under-8, Under-10, Under-12, Under-14, Under-16, Under-18 and Under-20 categories.
The rapid chess format gave each player 10 minutes, with an additional three seconds for every move.
Schools represented included Kampala Parents School, Delhi Public School International, Rainbow International School, Wanyange Girls Secondary School, Gayaza Junior School, Namiryango High School and Seroma Christian High School.
Others included Manifest International School, Caltec Academy, North Green School, Shree Jee and Gulama.
KCB Bank Uganda organised the event with the Uganda Chess Federation, Duya Discoveries, School Pay, ICEA Lion, Ruparelia Foundation and Brand Chess Life Academy.
KCB Bank Uganda Managing Director Edgar Byamah said the tournament aimed to help young people develop skills needed in school, business and daily life.
“Chess teaches young people how to think critically, solve problems, make informed decisions and remain composed under pressure. These are qualities that define strong leaders and responsible citizens,” Mr Byamah said.
He said the competition also expanded the bank’s investment in sport as a tool for youth development.
Mr Byamah added that KCB wanted children to develop strategic thinking and good financial habits from an early age.
Uganda Chess Federation treasurer David Muwanguzi said the large turnout showed that junior chess had a promising future.
“This tournament is an important milestone for chess in Uganda. We have seen outstanding talent from learners across the country, and that is a clear indication that the future of the sport is bright,” Mr Muwanguzi said.
He said regular competitions would expose young players to stronger opponents and help the federation identify future national champions.
Wanyange Girls and Gayaza Junior each received a solar panel system after winning the overall titles.
Individual category winners received trophies and other prizes. Every learner received a certificate, while participating schools received chess boards to support the game.
Organisers said the tournament would become an annual event on Uganda’s schools sports calendar.
