In the heart of Kampala, Uganda, a chess club that gained fame from the movie "Queen of Katwe" continues to inspire young players despite facing tough challenges. The SomChess Academy, run by Robert Katende, has been a haven for children in the slums, teaching them not just how to play chess but also valuable life skills.
Katende, who was portrayed by actor David Oyelowo in the 2016 Disney film, started his journey with a single chessboard in 2004. His initial goal was to help children, many of whom come from difficult backgrounds. One of his notable students, Phiona Mutesi, joined the club and rose to become a national champion, showcasing the potential that chess can unlock.
For over two decades, Katende has worked tirelessly, helping more than 4,000 children through his programs. These initiatives have led some students to successful careers as doctors, engineers, and lawyers. The club not only focuses on chess but also teaches discipline, patience, and strategic thinking.
Currently, Katende’s academy supports around 2,500 children and even extends its reach to about 800 inmates in local prisons. His programs aim to help participants make better decisions in life, using chess as a tool for growth. However, the academy faces significant financial hurdles.
Despite the initial boost from the film, which brought in a one-time grant of $50,000 from Disney, the ongoing financial situation is precarious. Katende mentioned that the film did not generate the expected profits, leading to misunderstandings about his financial status. Many people believe he became wealthy from the film, but he has struggled to maintain the academy and support his staff since the pandemic.
The academy has recently had to cut back, reducing its staff from 26 to just eight. Katende fears he may need to let go of more employees if funding does not improve. The club is currently limited by a lack of resources, with only 120 chess boards available for thousands of eager players.
Among those affected is Jovan Kasozi, Uganda’s current junior chess champion. Kasozi has benefited from the academy’s support, but he faced a setback last year when he couldn’t raise $400 for an international tournament. Despite these challenges, he remains hopeful and dedicated to chess, which he believes has improved his critical thinking skills.
While Katende is optimistic about the future, he acknowledges the difficulties ahead. He hopes that as the film industry recovers, there may be a chance for renewed support and resources for his chess programs. For now, he continues to work hard, believing that every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow through chess.