National Executive Committee
General Secretary, Uganda Chess Federation (UCF) | FIDE Master (FM) | FIDE Fair Play Commission Member
FM Walter Okas is a cornerstone of Ugandan chess — a titled player, experienced administrator, coach, and passionate advocate for the sport’s integrity and growth. Born in 1986, he currently serves as General Secretary of the Uganda Chess Federation (2025–2029 term), playing a pivotal role in the day-to-day operations, governance, and development of chess across Uganda.
Chess Career and Achievements
A FIDE Master (FM) since 2022, Okas has been one of Uganda’s top players for over a decade. His peak FIDE Classical rating reached 2308, and he currently maintains a strong rating around 2191, ranking him among the top 3–5 players in Uganda.
He has represented Uganda at two Chess Olympiads, showcasing national pride on the global stage. Known for his solid, fighting style and deep understanding of the game, Okas remains an active competitor in local and regional tournaments. He also serves as a coach through platforms like Lichess, where he mentors aspiring players with a focus on practical improvement and long-term development.
Administrative Leadership and Expertise
Elected unopposed as General Secretary in December 2025 under President Andrew Nkwasibwe Bakiza, Okas brings a wealth of institutional knowledge to the role. He previously served in various capacities within the federation, including as Player Representative and assisted the General Secretary for assigned engagements earlier in his career.
His expertise spans multiple domains:
By profession, Okas is a Computer Scientist, Software Developer, and IT Project Manager. This technical background enhances his contributions to modernizing Ugandan chess — from digital tools and online platforms to fair play technology and data-driven federation management.
Vision and Impact
As General Secretary, FM Okas is committed to professionalizing Ugandan chess, improving player welfare, ensuring transparent governance, and expanding opportunities for both junior and senior talents. His dual perspective as a high-level player and administrator makes him uniquely positioned to understand the needs of athletes while executing strategic federation goals.
Whether analyzing a complex middlegame, directing a national tournament, or shaping policy at the FIDE level, Walter Okas continues to be a driving force in Uganda’s chess renaissance.
Key Titles & Roles:
FM Walter Okas embodies the perfect balance of playing strength, administrative excellence, and technological insight — helping steer Ugandan chess toward greater heights on both national and continental stages.
General Secretary, Uganda Chess Federation (UCF) | FIDE Master (FM) | FIDE Fair Play Commission Member
FM Walter Okas is a cornerstone of Ugandan chess — a titled player, experienced administrator, coach, and passionate advocate for the sport’s integrity and growth. Born in 1986, he currently serves as General Secretary of the Uganda Chess Federation (2025–2029 term), playing a pivotal role in the day-to-day operations, governance, and development of chess across Uganda.
Chess Career and Achievements
A FIDE Master (FM) since 2022, Okas has been one of Uganda’s top players for over a decade. His peak FIDE Classical rating reached 2308, and he currently maintains a strong rating around 2191, ranking him among the top 3–5 players in Uganda.
He has represented Uganda at two Chess Olympiads, showcasing national pride on the global stage. Known for his solid, fighting style and deep understanding of the game, Okas remains an active competitor in local and regional tournaments. He also serves as a coach through platforms like Lichess, where he mentors aspiring players with a focus on practical improvement and long-term development.
Administrative Leadership and Expertise
Elected unopposed as General Secretary in December 2025 under President Andrew Nkwasibwe Bakiza, Okas brings a wealth of institutional knowledge to the role. He previously served in various capacities within the federation, including as Player Representative and assisted the General Secretary for assigned engagements earlier in his career.
His expertise spans multiple domains:
- Governance & Administration: Overseeing federation operations, event organization, and policy implementation.
- Fair Play & Integrity: Appointed as a Member of the FIDE Fair Play Commission (FPL), where he contributes to maintaining the highest standards of ethics in chess.
- Tournament Direction: Serves as an Associate Organiser (AO), including roles in major events like the 17th Africa Youth Chess Championship hosted in Entebbe in 2026.
- Player Development: A strong supporter of junior programs and grassroots chess, helping bridge competitive play with administrative support.
By profession, Okas is a Computer Scientist, Software Developer, and IT Project Manager. This technical background enhances his contributions to modernizing Ugandan chess — from digital tools and online platforms to fair play technology and data-driven federation management.
Vision and Impact
As General Secretary, FM Okas is committed to professionalizing Ugandan chess, improving player welfare, ensuring transparent governance, and expanding opportunities for both junior and senior talents. His dual perspective as a high-level player and administrator makes him uniquely positioned to understand the needs of athletes while executing strategic federation goals.
Whether analyzing a complex middlegame, directing a national tournament, or shaping policy at the FIDE level, Walter Okas continues to be a driving force in Uganda’s chess renaissance.
Key Titles & Roles:
- General Secretary, Uganda Chess Federation (2025–2029)
Player Representative (Former)
Rating Officer (Former)
FIDE Master (FM)
Associate Organiser (AO)
Member, FIDE Fair Play Commission
Olympian (two appearances)
Chess Coach
National Arbiter (NA)
Professional
- Software Developer
- PMP (Project Management Professional)
FM Walter Okas embodies the perfect balance of playing strength, administrative excellence, and technological insight — helping steer Ugandan chess toward greater heights on both national and continental stages.