2025 Zabasajja Memorial – FM Bob Bibasa triumphs
The 2025 Zabasajja Memorial Chess Tournament ended last weekend with FM Bob Bibasa winning the event with a score of 6.5 points out of 8 rounds. He took home a cash prize of UGX 850,000 (USD 250).
For FM Bibasa, who is courageously battling cancer, his victory at the 2025 Zabasajja Memorial Chess Tournament was a triumphant moment. It was a testament to his resilience and determination, proving that even in the face of adversity, one can achieve great things. In his prime, Bob was fondly referred to as ‘The Beast‘ for his bold and aggressive style of play.
Innocent Tamale scored 6.5 points as well but had to settle for the silver medal as he had a lower tie-break.
The Open Section was a batteground featuring 64 participants.
The 2025 Zabasajja Memorial Chess Tournament, a significant event in the Ugandan Grand Prix Circuit, is more than just a competition. It is a platform that paves the way for the selection of players to represent Uganda in international events in 2026, making it a crucial stepping stone in the chess community.
Ladies & Junior Section
WFM Sana Omprakash Kayyar, on the other hand, won the Ladies Section with a score of 7.5 points out of 8 rounds. She took home UGX 700,000 (USD 200) and gained an astonishing 44 Elo points, confirming her status as the top female player in the region.
WFM Ivy Amoko came out of retirement to grab the second slot with six points and win UGX 500,000.
The Ladies Section had 25 players and was part of the Ugandan Grand-Prix Circuit.
Trevor Tumukunde beat a field of 14 players to win the Junior Section with five points out of six rounds.
Game Corner
Photo Gallery
Event Poster
Final Standings
Past winners of the Zabasajja Memorial
2024 – FM Haruna Nsubuga (Uganda)
2020 – James Panchol (South Sudan)
2019 – Michael Mawanda (Uganda)
2013 – FM Haruna Nsubuga (Uganda)
Willy Zabasajja
Zabasajja was one of the most influential chess players Uganda has ever produced. He won nine national chess championship titles during his time! Willy was also the first Ugandan to attain the FIDE Master title after stunning displays at the World Chess Olympiad. He played in 8 Olympiads (1980-1992, 1996).
Willy Zabasajja died at the relatively young age of 40 after he failed to recover from a stroke in December 2006.
Event Details
Venue: SOM Arena, Makindye, Kampala.
Dates: 6th to 9th November 2025.
Time Control: 90 minutes plus 30 seconds.
Number of rounds: 8 rounds.
Links
2025 Zabasajja Memorial on chess-results.com.
2025 Zabasajja Memorial Photo Album.
FM Bob Bibasa talks about his cancer fight & chess journey.
2024 Zabasajja Memorial – FM Haruna Nsubuga grabs gold.
James Panchol Wins 2020 Zabasajja Memorial.
Standings & Results of the 2020 Zabasajja Memorial.
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Article by Kenya Chess Masala.