Kasparov pledges to support chess dev't

By James Bakama and David Namunyala  

BENEFITS of chess legend Garry Kasparov’s visit to Uganda are already evident.

Kasparov, who left for Kigali today, has promised to fully support a grassroots talent development project in Uganda.

“He asked us to identify ten pilot schools which he will fully support with chess boards, clocks and chess literature,” revealed Uganda Chess Federation Secretary Christopher Turyahabwe.

Uganda Chess Federation chairman makes a speech during the dinner held at Serena Kampala Hotel. Photo by David Namunyala.

Turyahabwe however said that Kasparov stressed that the schools have to be rural and in the 6-11 years category. “He wants to sow the chess seed right from the grassroots.”

Kasparov insists that the project should take off as soon as possible.  Turyahabwe explained that the onus is on the federation to identify the necessary schools.

“I should have completed a write up within two weeks detailing not only the schools, but also all the necessary logistical requirements.”

Kasparov is joined by former IGG Jotham Mwesigye as they serve dinner. Photo by David Namunyala.

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National Council of Sports General Secretary Jasper Aligawesa was part of a meeting between UCF and Kasparov and promised government’s support. “He has promised to kick start a campaign to have chess included on public schools’ curriculum,” said Turyahabwe.

“Kasparov Chess Foundation has successfully initiated a similar programme in South Africa.  It will also work with UCF to get financial support to enable talented children become better chess players,” Kasparov said soon after arrival at Entebbe airport.

Kasparov, who jetted in Uganda from a similar trip to Kenya, is also planning similar grassroots promotion in Rwanda, Malawi and Zambia.

Kasparov shares a light moment with Africa Msimang a social enterpreneur and his chess partner. Photo by David Namunyala. 

Kasparov chats with his wife Daria Kasparova during the dinner. Photo by David Namunyala.

He said programme is being rolled out in schools across Africa “to help the children become better thinkers” following its success in South Africa.

Garry Kasparov became the youngest world chess champion in history in 1985. He remained top-ranked for twenty years. His five matches against Anatoly Karpov brought the game of chess to new heights as a modern professional sport.

Kasparov’s enthusiasm for new challenges resulted in his famous matches against the IBM supercomputer Deep Blue.