Chess in the Slums: Uganda's SomChess Academy Continues to Inspire

Robert Katende's SomChess Academy, a beacon of hope for children in Uganda's slums, faces financial challenges but continues to produce talented chess players, transforming lives one move at a time.

For over two decades, Robert Katende has transformed the lives of countless children in Katwe, a slum area in Uganda's capital, by instilling the love of chess. His SomChess Academy not only promotes the game but helps children harness their potential. Despite financial hurdles, Katende remains committed to this mission.

After graduating as a civil engineer, Katende began his journey in 2004, transitioning from football coaching to chess. His efforts led to the rise of Phiona Mutesi, a girl from a struggling background who became a chess prodigy and was the focus of the acclaimed film Queen of Katwe. She later won several national titles and gained international recognition.

Katende emphasizes the transformative nature of chess, highlighting its ability to teach essential skills such as strategy, discipline, and patience, crucial for both the game and life. Students like Patricia Kawuma, a two-time national junior chess champion, exemplify this impact by using her earnings from chess to support her education.

Over the years, Katende has guided more than 4,000 children in his programs, aiming to foster their growth into successful professionals. His initiatives expanded significantly after the publication of Mutesi's story, receiving vital funding from Disney when the film adaptation was made. However, the success of the movie has not translated into ongoing financial support, as Disney reported losses on the project.

The current landscape poses challenges. The pandemic resulted in a need to downsize operations, affecting staff numbers and leading to cancellations of tournaments for talented players like junior champion Jovan Kasozi, who missed international opportunities due to a lack of funds.

Katende remains optimistic, drawing parallels between chess and life's challenges. He believes that every setback presents opportunities for growth and learning. While awaiting potential future support, he cherishes the visibility and connections gained through the film, hoping to navigate these tough times just as he teaches his students to approach the game.