By 
Jovan Kasozi, a 16-year-old chess prodigy from Katwe, has been making waves in the Ugandan chess scene, currently participating in the T.E.C.H FOR THE WORLD Annual Chess Championship 2025 held from 29 – January 31, at the Sports Outreach Ministries Home in Kiwawu, Mityana.
With over 150 children competing in this prestigious event, Kasozi’s journey has been filled with ups and downs, but his resilience and determination are undeniable.
The T.E.C.H FOR THE WORLD chess tournament, a significant event in the Ugandan chess calendar, is designed to showcase the talent of young school children across the country.
Participants are divided into Primary and Secondary categories, with boys and girls competing within their respective age groups.
Kasozi, who is currently a student at Malcom X Secondary School, is part of the Secondary category, hoping to claim a top prize, including a school fees package.
On the first day of the tournament, Kasozi faced a challenging start. Out of the three games he played, he won one but lost two.
Despite these setbacks, Kasozi remained optimistic, showing true sportsmanship and determination.
“I have lost two so far but I still have the belief that I will win the school fees package,” he confidently stated.
“I am not worried, I will work better and win tomorrow. I lost because I underestimated my opponents, something I won’t do again.”
This resilient mindset has been a key part of his success.
Even though Kasozi had little prior knowledge of his opponents’ play styles, he remained determined to push forward and meet the challenges head-on, indicating his growth as both a player and a person.
A story behind Kasozi’s 2024 National Junior Chess Championship Victory.
However Kasozi’s chess journey has been nothing short of remarkable, especially after his triumph in the 2024 National Junior Chess Championship.
This competition, held at Nob View Hotel in Ntinda, showcased the best young talents in the country, and Kasozi rose to the occasion, claiming victory.
Kasozi centre in black.
Reflecting on his performance, Kasozi acknowledged the challenges he faced during the tournament.
“I knew everyone’s style of play as per the videos on YouTube, so it was a bit easier until the final round, where I played against the two brothers, Mwase Mathew and Mwase Arthur from Mango Tech Club,” he shared.
“Mathew was the defending champion, so playing him was tough. But I managed to beat him and draw with Arthur, which was a huge achievement for me.”
Kasozi playing at the National Junior Chess Championship.
His victory at the National Junior Championship wasn’t without its difficulties.
Kasozi spoke candidly about the off-the-board challenges, particularly regarding registration fees and transport.
His mother, Mrs. Proscovia Ssebatta, helped with the registration fee, while Kasozi personally covered his transport and meal costs.
“I was spending 10,000 Ugandan shillings on transport and meals for all four days. I would walk from home to the Taxi Park, then take a taxi to Ntinda where the games were held,” he explained.
Despite these hurdles, his passion for chess remained unwavering.
Kasozi’s victory in the National Junior Chess Championship has opened doors for him. He now feels more recognized in the chess community, which has boosted his morale and inspired him to train harder.
“Nobody knew me before the tournament. It helped me get recognition, opportunities, and motivation to train more,” he said.
His rigorous training schedule, guided by his coach, Mirembe Derrick, involves up to 9 hours of practice a day, although they sometimes reduce it to 6 hours.
“After winning the National Juniors Chess Championship, I have to prepare for the Africa Junior Championship and World Junior Championship,” Kasozi said, illustrating his ambition to compete on a global stage.
Despite his impressive achievements, there are challenges on the horizon.
According to Mr. Robert Katende, the director of SOM Chess Academy, Kasozi will not be able to participate in the World Junior Chess Championship due to the timing of the event and the lack of a passport.
“The deadline for the World Championship came too early, and Kasozi doesn’t yet have a passport,” Katende explained.
“However, he will still participate in the Africa Junior Chess Championship, which is a great opportunity for him.”
Kasozi’s journey is a testament to his perseverance, talent, and the support of his family and coach.
While financial constraints and logistical challenges persist, his drive to succeed in chess is undeterred.
With his eyes set on the Africa Junior Championship, Kasozi’s future in the sport looks bright, and his determination to represent Uganda on the global chess stage is unwavering.
As he continues to grow both as a player and a person, the chess world will undoubtedly be watching closely.
