Kireka Chess Club Leads Uganda’s Dominance at the 2025 Africa Amateurs Individual Chess Championship

Bujumbura, Burundi – August 26, 2025
Kireka Chess Club has once again cemented its place as the home of champions after powering Uganda’s stunning success at the 2025 Africa Amateurs Individual Chess Championship in Bujumbura, Burundi. Uganda emerged as the standout nation of the tournament, winning 2 Golds, 2 Silvers, and 1 Bronze, and Kireka’s stars played a central role in this historic achievement.

Kireka’s Golden Stars Shine Bright

At the heart of Uganda’s triumph were Candidate Master (CM) Shoubith Omprakash Kayyar and Woman FIDE Master (WFM) Sana Omprakash Kayyar, both products of Kireka Chess Club’s strong training culture and commitment to excellence.

• CM Shoubith Omprakash Kayyar claimed the Gold Medal in the U2000 Open Section with a stellar 6/9 score, earning him the coveted Candidate Master title. His win underscores Kireka’s tradition of nurturing champions ready to conquer the international stage.

• WFM Sana Omprakash Kayyar, the defending champion in the U2300 Women’s Section, continued her incredible form, scoring 6/9 to win Silver and a direct qualification to the 2026 World Amateurs Individual Chess Championship. Sana’s consistency and fighting spirit have made her one of Africa’s most respected female players.

Kireka’s impact on the championship extended beyond the podium, with the club’s influence reaching across borders. Madol Garang Panthou Joh, a South Sudanese player sponsored and trained by Kireka Chess Club, secured 2nd place in the U2300 Open Section, achieving the Candidate Master title and qualifying for the 2026 World Amateurs.

Uganda’s Medals: Kireka chess club at the Core

Uganda’s impressive results were a team effort, but Kireka’s contribution was unmatched, producing top-level talent and championing the country’s dominance. Here’s Uganda’s full medal tally:

Kireka Chess Club’s impact on the 2025 Africa Amateurs demonstrates why it remains Uganda’s chess powerhouse. The club continues to produce champions, mentor international players, and set the standard for chess excellence in Africa.

The road now leads to Serbia, where WFM Sana Omprakash Kayyar, FM Haruna Nsubuga, and CM Shoubith Omprakash Kayyar will fly the Ugandan flag at the 2025 and 2026 World Amateurs Individual Chess Championships. With this performance, Kireka Chess Club has once again proven that its players are not just competing they are dominating.

“This result is a testament to the dedication and resilience of our players, coaches, and the chess community that supports them. Kireka Chess Club will continue to raise champions and inspire the next generation of chess players across Africa.” – Kaddu Ivan Kireka chess club captain

Credit Samuel Were (Kireka Chess Club)