In December 2016, NTV featured a profile of a young Chess Prodigy Maria Nakanyike. At just nine years she had come top in several female only tournaments as well as open competitions where she beat boys as well. The primary six Pupil of St. Macerino Primary School in Matugga Wakiso district told us that her ultimate dream was to become Africa’s Chess Grand Master and the opportunities to make her dream come true are many but she failed to give them a shot due to lack of funds and lack of sponsorship.
The first opportunity came from Zambia in 2016 but she did not go. This year, she received another invitation from Zimbabwe from another Chess Tournament set for August but again Nakanyike’s chances of traveling are dim.
“Maria’s story on NTV has really showcased her to the world, now the position is what’s next? There are no funds to travel.” Said, Augustine Buwule – Coach/Father to Nakanyike. She feels so bad missing such opportunities where she would showcase her talent and raise Uganda’s flag high. “I had to go but we had no money for the passport and everything.” Maria Nakanyike – Chess Player. The youngster is confident that if she is given the chance, she would come back with top honors. Nakanyike’s father who is also her coach Augustine Buwule told NTV that they had made efforts to seek funds from the Uganda Chess Federation but in vain. “As a parent of Maria, I feel that this is an indicator to the government. We call upon the government to come on and sponsor.” Said the Coach/Father to Nakanyike.
The federation was aware of Nakanyike’s plight but the officials said their hands were also tied due to financial constraints. “We are having challenges with funding but we are very optimistic that companies from the corporate world are going to stand with us.” Said, David Muhanguzi – Publicity Secretary, Uganda Chess Federation. Nakanyike and her coach appealed to members of the public for help. “We as individuals, companies, as friends of talent; what does this show? It shows that we need to come up.” Said the Coach/Father to Nakanyike.
