In a bid to increase female participation in chess nationwide, the Women in Chess Foundation is hosting the third edition of the Women’s Day Rapid Tournament, where several players will compete for medals and cash prizes. This event is part of the Foundation’s community-based programs aimed at bridging the gender gap through in chess.
The inaugural Women’s Day Tournament took place in 2021, followed by a second edition last year which attracted over 70 players.
The 8-round competition will commence this Friday, March 8, with over 100 players expected to participate at Gloria Gardens, Namugongo.
Ivy Amoko, President of the Women In Chess Foundation, emphasized the need for stakeholder involvement to ensure increased female participation.
She stated, “We can only go so far on our own, and while other sports receive more attention, our chess team excels when we actively engage. We have a few private investors onboard, but we still need more support.”
Amoko unveiled this year’s tournament sponsors, which include Finance Trust Bank and Africa Study Center, among others. She expressed the foundation’s goal of providing a platform for girls to excel in chess, highlighting the importance of addressing the lack of recognition and prizes for women in the sport.
Percy Lubega, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Finance Trust Bank, emphasized the tournament’s alignment with the bank’s commitment to women empowerment. Lubega stated, “As a bank, we believe in women empowerment. The tournament encourages strategic thinking, competition, and commitment, fostering growth in a game that is crucial for the younger generation.”
Kenneth Kiyaga, Secretary General of Africa Study Center, emphasized the shared interests in promoting women’s empowerment and recognition in strategic thinking and leadership. He noted, “Just like in chess, where these values are paramount, we recognize the importance of fostering women’s strategic acumen.”
The top 13 performing players will receive prize money, with the anticipation of crowning the next queen of chess.
