Team Uganda off to Georgia for 43rd Chess Olympiad without government sponsorship
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Uganda has sent a star studded team to the 43rd world Chess Olympiad that will take place in Batumi Georgia between 23rd of September and 6th of October.
The five man Men’s team comprises of the cream de la cream of Uganda led by International Master Arthur Ssegwanyi, FIDE Masters Patrick Kawuma, Haruna Nsubuga and Walter Okas plus Candidate Master Shadrack Kantinti who will be captained by Jordan Teeba.
Members of Uganda's chess team pose for a photo before set off
The ladies’ team that will be Captained by Uganda Chess Federation Vice President Otim Isaac has American based Woman Candidate Master Phiona Mutesi, Woman FIDE Masters Christine Namaganda and Peninah Nakabo, plus debutants Gloria Nansubuga and Shakira Ampaire.
Sadly, the team that will be representing the country at the biggest level of the sport has not received any financial support from government as Uganda Chess Federation president Emmanuel Mwaka revealed to NilePost.
‘This team has encountered some challenges. We are disappointed that government has not supported us, it really hurts that federation officials are the ones to use their own money and support this team.’
One of the debutants and youngest on the team, Gloria Nansubuga however is in owe of the opportunity to carry the national flag.
‘I am very happy to be part of the team, it is my first time and I don’t know how to express my happiness’
Uganda last featured at the 2016 Olympiad in Baku Arzabaijan.
The 14-man contingent will be led by Uganda Chess Federation president Emmanuel Mwaka.
THE UGANDAN CONTINGENT
MEN
IM Arthur Ssegwanyi
FM Patrick Kawuma
FM Haruna Nsubuga
FM Walter Okas
CM Shadrack Kantinti
Jordan Teeba – CAPTAIN
WOMEN
WCM Phionah Mutesi
WFM Christine Namaganda
WFM Peninah Nakabo
Gloria Nansubuga
Shakira Ampaire
Isaac Otim – Ladies Captain
Muwanguzi – journalist
Emmanuel Mwaka – Head of Delegation