Despite a slow build-up, the upcoming Kitgum qualifiers at Icon Lounge are shaping up to be a lively event. Tyson Samuel Akera, the regional coordinator, reports 13 women and an expected 32 men ready to compete, highly-rated Esther Lagum, a local tournament champion, is a frontrunner.
Tracy Scovia Auma, who represented Kitgum last year in the Nile Special National Open, will be looking to join the finalists in Jinja. Susan Ayaa Safira, a Town Clerk secretary and Gulu University student, will spice up competition.
The men’s field promises intense competition with 16 strong contenders. Veteran Jimmy Okello, a former Lugogo quarterfinalist, leads the charge. A potential upset awaits with 14-year-old Joseph Rwot Okonya (Dogo) entering the fray.
However, Okonya will face seasoned players like Moses Omara’s twin brother Samuel Ogenrwoth. Omara delivered a surprise last year by eliminating Ibrahim Sejjemba from the National Open finals. Last year’s National Open representative, Wilfred Wokorach, and Ivan “Rabadaba” Opwonya, who opted for Kitgum after missing Gulu qualifiers, round out the strong men’s field.
Already qualified
Ankole region
Men: Keith Kananura, Shakibu Tumusiime, Michael Mugume, Zidan Mugabi
Women: Angella Busingye and Martha Nakabaale
Tooro region
Men: Sofian Kumalirwa, Ivan Murungi, Lora Isagara and Benjamin Rujumba.
Women: Gorret Kabasinguzi and Lucy Nalongo
Greater Mityana
Men: Abubaker Nakabaale, Yuda Sembuusi, Joseph Balikuddembe and Fahad Ntambi
Women: Amina Faith Nganda and Maria Namatovu
Greater Mukono
Men: Jonathan Ouma, Patrick Ssekirime, Habib Ssebuguzi and Ivan Ssemayenje
Women: Serena Ogumushabe and Lucky Namugenyi
Kireka
Men: Ibrahim Kayanja, Junior Asiku, Emma Chuol, Morgan Malinga, Mustapha Bwire, Kevin Kaboha.
Women: Rhoda Nakaweesi and Michelle Nandawula
Jinja City
Men: Eric Mugabo, Cyrus Mawejje, J amadah Mutumba, Ismail Kimera
Women: Juliet Namuhanga and Cindarella Kobusingye
Gulu
Men: Moses Omara, Walter Odoki, Samson Odong, Haron Opiyo
Women: Annah Lakot, Sandra Ampaire and Dosolin Aciro.
