Introduction
The legacy of the Queen of Katwe lives on in Kampala’s SomChess Academy, where chess coach Robert Katende continues transforming young lives through the game. Despite financial challenges and a lack of infrastructure, his initiative remains a powerful force in Uganda’s slum neighbourhoods.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Recognition
Katende, portrayed by David Oyelowo in Disney’s 2016 film, began volunteering in Katwe as a football coach. By 2004, he introduced chess to the community with just one board and a vision: to teach life skills through strategy. Within a year, nine-year-old Phiona Mutesi joined and blossomed into a chess prodigy. She became national junior champion, competed internationally, and earned the Woman Candidate Master title.
The Transformative Power of Chess
Patricia Kawuma, now 18 and a two-time junior champion, explains the impact: “Apart from winning school scholarships, this game has taught me how to strategise and plan ahead, and it instils discipline and patience.” She has also represented Uganda abroad and used prize money to support her family.
Wide-Ranging Impact Beyond Chess
Over two decades, more than 4,000 children have participated in Katende’s academy. Many have become doctors, engineers, and lawyers. With Disney’s initial grant of $50,000, Katende established a headquarters in Katwe and launched the Robert Katende Initiative, which now operates in prisons in Uganda and slums across East and Southern Africa.
Ongoing Financial Struggles
Despite high-profile successes, funding remains fragile. Katende says: “We have scaled down operations and closed training centres due to lack of funding.” Staff numbers have dropped from 26 to eight. The COVID-19 pandemic further drained support, forcing resource-constrained centres to share only 120 chessboards among thousands of students.
Meet Uganda’s Rising Star: Jovan Kasozi
Nineteen-year-old junior champion Jovan Kasozi continues to shine despite financial barriers. He secured schooling through Katende’s program and crowdfunded for extra coaching. Yet he missed last year’s international tournament because he couldn’t afford a $400 plane ticket—a challenge that underscores the academy’s funding plight.
Disney’s Unmet Promise
Disney’s investment brought recognition, but no ongoing profit share. Katende says he’d been promised 67% of profits, but was informed the film didn’t recoup its $15 million investment. “Many think I’m a wealthy Hollywood chess coach… but we’re yet to benefit from profits,” he admits.
Yet, Katende remains hopeful. He says Disney publicised their work and attracted local and international partners. “If Disney breaks even, hopefully they will reach out,” he says.
Chess as a Metaphor for Life
Katende emphasizes: “Chess is a metaphor for life. There are challenges and surprises everywhere but if you look closely you can find opportunities.” His focus remains on developing critical thinking, discipline, and resilience among Uganda’s youth.
Conclusion
The **Queen of Katwe’s legacy** continues in Kampala’s slums, where SomChess Academy is a beacon of hope. From Phiona Mutesi and Patricia Kawuma to Jovan Kasozi, chess is changing lives. Yet this transformative work hinges on funding and support. If Africa’s youth empowerment goals are to be met, initiatives like Katende’s must be nurtured.
Support and learn more about youth empowerment in Africa: Africa Youth Empowerment Projects.
