The Kireka Open Chess Championship 2025 (9th Edition) once again confirmed its status as one of the biggest and most influential chess events in Uganda and the region. Hosted at the Sports View Hotel in Kireka along the Kenya–Uganda Highway, the tournament transformed the venue into a true international chess arena, attracting players from seven federations across Africa and beyond, including South Sudan, Somalia, and Zambia. The strong international presence, combined with Uganda’s top talent, made this edition one of the most competitive in the tournament’s history.
The championship attracted elite players such as Zambian Candidate Master Zulu Thomas and Uganda’s leading competitors including Harold Wanyama, Haruna Nsubuga, Kawuma Patrick, Nyola Waswa Mark, and Kamoga Rajab. The tournament was officiated by a high-level arbitration team led by International Arbiter Kimera, assisted by Cynthia from Kenya, ensuring the highest technical standards throughout the event.
From the opening rounds, the competition delivered drama and excitement. Several early upsets set the tone, with top seeds falling to fearless underdogs, underlining the depth of the field. A unique highlight of the tournament was the bounty placed on Kireka Chess Club players by Munanira Isaac, a move that significantly spiced up the competition. The bounty inspired bold play, intensified rivalries, and directly contributed to a series of thrilling and unexpected results that kept spectators engaged throughout.
The Open section produced a historic performance by Ngong Samuel Gai of South Sudan, who dominated the field and won the tournament with a flawless score of 8/8. He sealed his victory in the final round against Nyola Waswa Mark, completing one of the most commanding performances ever seen at the Kireka Open. Gongthong Gong of kireka chess club finished second, while Musasizi Emmanuel secured third place. Joint fourth place honors went to Sonko, Nyola Waswa Mark, and Kamoga Rajab.
The Ladies section delivered equally exciting chess, ending in a tie at the top. The championship was decided by a tiebreak playoff, where WIM Sana Omprakash Kayyar of kireka chess club emerged as the winner. WFM Nakabob Peninah of kireka chess club claimed third place after a strong and consistent showing.
Strong performances were also recorded across the rating categories. Apollo Ahumuza of KTLC Chess Club dominated the U2000 category with an impressive 6/8 score, gaining over 77 Elo points in a single tournament. The U1900 category was won by Daahir Bashir of Somalia, continuing the strong international presence on the podium. The Best Player with Disability award was deservedly won by Mbaziira Wasswa Sharif of SOM Chess Academy, recognizing both skill and resilience.
The Junior tournament showcased the future of chess, with Tulinaye Osborn emerging champion in the Junior Open section, while Birungi Shekinah Adnah claimed victory in the Girls’ Junior section. Both junior champions were rewarded with laptops in recognition of their outstanding performances and potential.
Games from the championship were broadcast live on Lichess, allowing global audiences to follow the action and study several brilliant encounters from the event. The tournament was proudly sponsored by MTN Uganda and Manda Mobile, with players donning orange attire, making it one of the most visually striking and colorful chess events ever hosted in Uganda. Winners across all categories received cash prizes, trophies, and medals.
Special appreciation goes to Bob Were, patron of Kireka Chess Club, for his unwavering support, as well as the organizing committee led by Sanya Derrick and Kafuko John for delivering a professionally run and memorable championship. The President of the Uganda Chess Federation, Andrew Bakiiza, commended Kireka Chess Club for the excellent organization and reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to supporting the continued growth of chess in Uganda.
The 9th Edition of the Kireka Open Chess Championship will be remembered for its international reach, competitive intensity, historic performances, and exceptional organization, further cementing Kireka Chess Club’s place as a cornerstone of chess development in Uganda.
credit: Samuel Were
