SOM Inter-Project Chess Championship 2025 starts with flaring passion and hope

The 18th edition of the SOM Inter-Project Chess Championship 2025 has officially begun, with over 300 young chess enthusiasts gathering at the Sports Outreach Resource Centre in Kiwawu, Mityana, to showcase their skills and determination.

The three-day tournament, running until December 10th, features participants from seven SOM Inter-Project Chess Academy branches, including Kampala, Gulu, Jinja, Kagadi, Masaka, Hoima, and Budaka.

The event, which serves as a platform for nurturing talent, instilling discipline, and empowering vulnerable children, has garnered support from prominent sponsors, including Jason Yip, Jeff Steiner, Dana and Kathryn Hiscock, Dr. Peer, Daryl Calfee, and the Clenets, among others.

Founder Robert Katende praised the players for their passion and resilience, emphasizing the tournament’s goal of transforming lives and spreading hope through chess.

“This event shows what’s possible when partners believe in these children’s potential,” Katende said, highlighting the importance of support in empowering young minds.

The tournament features rated and unrated players competing in various age groups, with medals, trophies, and scholarships up for grabs for top performers.

The SOM Chess Academy aims to continue nurturing talent, supporting orphans’ education, and empowering the disabled, with this championship serving as a testament to the power of chess in shaping young lives.

The event is expected to conclude on Wednesday, with the top performers set to be awarded for their outstanding skills and sportsmanship.