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David GOMBE

Greater than 800 learners from throughout Uganda converged at Kampala Mother and father College for the inaugural KCB Colleges Chess Match, a first-of-its-kind competitors with the most important variety of contributors ever recorded in Uganda.

The event, organised by KCB Financial institution Uganda in partnership with the Uganda Chess Federation, Duya Discoveries,College Pay, ICEA Lion, Rupharelia Basis and Model Chess Life Academy, attracted contributors aged between six and 20 years competing within the Below-6, Below-8, Below-10, Below-12, Below-14, Below-16, Below-18 and Below-20 classes. At this time’s fast chess format had each participant play for simply 10 minutes, with a 3-second increment per transfer.

The competitors introduced collectively among the nation’s high junior chess expertise from faculties together with Kampala Mother and father College, Delhi Public College Worldwide, Rainbow Worldwide College, Wanyange Women Secondary College, Gayaza Junior College, Namiryango Excessive College, Gulama, Seroma Christian Excessive College, Manifest Worldwide College, Caltec Academy, The North Inexperienced College, Shree Jee and a number of other others from throughout Uganda.
Whereas learners performed throughout the 64-square board and battled for honours of their respective classes, the event additionally highlighted the rising function of chess in equipping younger individuals with important life expertise that stretch far past competitors.
Edgar Byamah, the Managing Director KCB Financial institution Uganda, whereas talking throughout the event, mentioned the occasion displays the financial institution’s dedication to investing in initiatives that put together younger individuals for fulfillment in class, enterprise and on a regular basis life.

“Chess teaches younger individuals methods to assume critically, remedy issues, make knowledgeable selections and stay composed beneath strain. These are qualities that outline robust leaders and accountable residents. By this event, we’re making a platform the place younger Ugandans can sharpen these expertise whereas showcasing their expertise.”
He added that the event expands KCB Financial institution Uganda’s funding in sports activities as a automobile for youth empowerment.

“Our dedication to younger individuals extends past right now’s event. By our merchandise just like the KCB Cub Account, we’re encouraging households to spend money on their kids’s future from an early age. We consider that when kids develop each strategic considering and sound monetary habits, they’re higher geared up to grab alternatives and achieve no matter path they select.”
The event featured a full day of competitors throughout the varied age classes, with learners demonstrating outstanding tactical consciousness, self-discipline and willpower.
Treasurer of the Uganda Chess Federation, David Muwanguzi, welcomed the partnership, describing it as a major enhance for junior chess growth in Uganda.

“This event is a vital milestone for chess in Uganda. Now we have seen excellent expertise from learners throughout the nation, and that may be a clear indication that the way forward for the game is vibrant. We commend KCB Financial institution Uganda for investing in a platform that provides kids the chance to compete, study and develop whereas serving to us determine the subsequent technology of nationwide champions.”
He famous that increasing entry to aggressive tournaments is crucial in strengthening Uganda’s chess ecosystem and exposing younger gamers to increased ranges of competitors.

The inaugural event concluded with Wanyange Women Secondary College and Gayaza Junior College being topped the general champions after distinctive performances throughout the varied competitors classes, incomes every college a photo voltaic panel system because the event’s high prize.
The competitors introduced collectively 830 learners from 77 faculties throughout Uganda, with each participant receiving a certificates of participation, whereas every taking part college was offered with chess boards to help the continued progress of the sport. Particular person winners throughout the completely different age classes had been additionally awarded trophies and prizes in recognition of their excellent shows of technique, self-discipline and composure, bringing the championship to a becoming shut whereas highlighting the outstanding depth of Uganda’s rising younger chess expertise.

The event types a part of KCB Financial institution Uganda’s broader dedication to empowering younger individuals by means of initiatives that develop expertise, construct character and create alternatives. The competitors will grow to be an annual fixture on Uganda’s faculties’ sporting calendar, offering a platform for figuring out future chess champions whereas encouraging extra learners to embrace a sport the place success is earned one well-calculated transfer at a time.