David GOMBE
KCB Bank Uganda has unveiled the inaugural KCB Schools Chess Tournament, a purpose-driven national initiative designed to nurture strategic thinking, discipline and confidence among young learners, while instilling a culture of financial responsibility from an early age.
Organised in partnership with Brand Chess Life Academy and Duya Discoveries, the tournament will take place on 13th June 2026 at Kampala Parents School (KPS) and is expected to attract over 1,000 participants aged 6 to 20 years from across the country.
At its core, the initiative goes beyond competition. It creates opportunity, giving young people a platform to challenge themselves, build confidence and develop skills that shape how they think, learn and grow.
Noela Byuma Head of Marketing and Communications KCB Bank Uganda while speaking at the launch, noted, “At KCB Bank Uganda, we see this partnership with the Chess Academy as a sporting event that is a crucible for leadership. We are living in an era defined by rapid change and unprecedented complexity. In such a world, the most vital currency is the ability to think three steps ahead while remaining firmly grounded in the present.”
She added, “We also encourage parents to begin introducing practical saving habits through the KCB Cub Account early in the lives of their children. Take that first simple step by visiting any of our branches nationwide can make a meaningful difference in how a child approaches their future.”
Andrew Bakiza, President of the Uganda Chess Foundation while addressing the chess participants noted, “We are truly grateful to KCB Bank Uganda for standing with us and consistently investing in the growth of sport in this country. Partnerships like this create real opportunities for young people, inspire confidence and play a meaningful role in shaping the future of sport in Uganda.”
According to the Uganda Chess Federation, participation in chess can improve problem-solving ability by up to 22%, with broader benefits in critical thinking, concentration and decision-making.
Through this inaugural tournament, KCB Bank Uganda is building a platform that blends learning, discipline and opportunity supporting young people to grow into confident individuals ready to shape their future.
The tournament will bring together students, parents and educators in a shared effort to empower the next generation. Participation is open to all schools and individuals. Registration will be conducted via KCB Pay by dialing *244*9#, enter merchant code 125463 and pay a participation fee of UGX 30,000 per student.
And in moments like these, you begin to see what it means to stand alongside communities in shaping a better tomorrow, For People. For Better.
