Bibasa Prepares To Defend Vision Open

By William Muwonge The New Vision chess Open has been fixed for July, prompting actors including champion Bob Bibasa to step up their training. But the 25-year old Bibasa, will face a highly talented opposition at the event due in Kampala. The competition was put off in April to allow Ugandan players compete at a regional tournament in Nairobi. Bibasa led his colleagues to a clean sweep of the event. Chess’ top brains from Uganda and other African countries will compete in the ten-round event in Kampala. Bibasa battles former junior champion Stephen Kawuma, Isaac Munanira, Ignatius Wanderema, veteran player Joachim Okoth. Kawuma is the player Bibasa must be most worried about. The 22-year old Kawuma, is in great form. Kawuma showed this at the weekend when he defied all opposition to win the Rapid Open to get his second title of the season. Top players from Seychelles and Kenya are coming to Kampala. Uganda Chess Federation (UCF) chairman Daniel Nsibambi, said players from other African countries have shown interest in the event. “We are waiting for the players to formally register,” Nsibambi said. Registration is underway. Ends