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Kampala, Uganda (Gloria Gardens Namugongo)— International Master Ssegwanyi Arthur reaffirmed his dominance on the regional chess scene by winning the 2025 Kireka Closed Chess Tournament in commanding fashion. Finishing with an impressive 8/9, Ssegwanyi secured the title with a round to spare, cementing his place as the number one player in East and Central Africa.

Trailing behind the champion was FM Kawuma Patrick, who secured second place with a solid performance, while CM Nyola Wasswa Mark completed the podium in third place. The tournament featured a mix of East Africa’s strong juniors and emerging talents, making for a competitive and spirited event.

One of the standout performances came from Muhirwa Alvin, who was awarded Best Junior. His rise has been visible by his stunning victories over FM Nsubuga Haruna and Kamoga Rajab in back-to-back rounds. These upset wins are a clear indication of Alvin’s rapid improvement and growing reputation on the national stage.

Rapid Section

The Rapid Section of the tournament attracted a competitive field, with the highest-rated participant at 2326 and the lowest-rated participant at 1556. Despite the ratings, the intensity of play was high, and it served as a fertile ground for emerging players to test their mettle against more experienced opponents.

Blitz Section

In the Blitz Section, FM Kawuma Patrick demonstrated his lightning-fast calculation skills to take the top spot. He was closely followed by Wanyama Harold, another prominent figure in Ugandan chess, while Sangalo Moris surprised many by finishing third. Despite a period of inactivity, Moris proved he still possesses the sharpness and instinct that once made him a feared opponent on the board.

Female Recognition

The Best Female Player award went to Sana Omprakash, who showed consistency throughout the tournament. Her presence was a welcome reminder of the growing strength and participation of women in Ugandan chess.

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The 2025 Kireka Closed Chess Tournament was not just a battle for titles, but a celebration of talent, growth, and the unrelenting passion for the game. With stars like Ssegwanyi shining brighter than ever, and juniors like Alvin Muhirwa making their mark, the future of Ugandan chess looks incredibly promising.

Credit Were Samuel

Kireka Chess Club

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Kireka Chess Club held a vibrant Victory Party on April 26th, 2025, at Gloria Gardens, Namugongo, to honor the club’s extraordinary achievements in recent high-profile tournaments. The celebration marked a historic moment: Kireka’s 7th Uganda National Chess League title, cementing the club’s status as the undisputed powerhouse of Ugandan chess.

The joyous gathering brought together club members, supporters, executives from the Uganda Chess Federation, and international well-wishers. The atmosphere was electric with celebration—filled with speeches, awards, music, and laughter—as the club paid tribute to a season of dominance and regional victories.

At the heart of the celebration were three significant achievements:

• IM Arthur Ssegwanyi, Kireka’s flagship player, clinched the 2025 Kantinti Memorial Tournament Open Section title with 5.5/6 points, showcasing his dominance on home soil.

• WFM Sana Omprakash, also representing Kireka, took the crown in the Ladies’ Section of the same tournament, reinforcing the club’s strength in both male and female categories.

• Samuel Were, a long-time Kireka player, secured a perfect 6/6 victory at the Bungoma Open in Kenya, a feat made possible through sponsorship from Kireka patron Mr. Were Bob, who personally funded his participation.

These victories were not just individual milestones — they reflected the deep bench of talent, mentorship, and unity that defines Kireka Chess Club.

Award presentations to players and contributors, recognizing outstanding performances throughout the season.

• Best Female Player – WFM Nakabo Peninah, for her consistent and inspiring performance across tournaments.

• Best Male Player – CM Egesa Emmanuel, for his exceptional board results and critical wins throughout the league.

• Best Junior Player – Muhirwa Alvin, a rising star whose resilience and growth marked him as one to watch in Ugandan chess.

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A special tribute to Mr. Were Bob, the club’s esteemed patron, whose unwavering support continues to elevate Kireka players to regional and international stages. he also quoted Award presentations to the club’s top performers, including personalized plaques and tokens of appreciation.

“Kireka is not just a club—it is a family of champions. These victories reflect our hard work, our unity, and our vision to lead chess development in Uganda and beyond.”

Recognition of team captains and coaches whose leadership was instrumental in guiding the club to its historic seventh Uganda National Chess League title.

As the celebrations wound down, focus turned to the future. With the National Chess Championship and other FIDE-rated events on the horizon, Kireka Chess Club is more motivated than ever to maintain its momentum.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to mentorship, youth training programs, and regional outreach, ensuring that the club remains a breeding ground for the next generation of chess stars.

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Kireka Chess Club continues to set the standard — not only through competitive excellence but by cultivating a strong community bound by the love of the game.

Credit

Samuel Were

Photo Credit: Gotham