Continental Stars Headline 2026 Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally

Uganda is once again set to host one of the continent’s most prestigious motorsport events as it welcomes Round 2 of the African Rally Championship which also doubles as the second round of the KCB National Rally Championship The Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally is scheduled to take place from 7th to 9th May, with crews taking on the stages iMbarara and Kiruhura districts.

This year’s edition promises to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Crews from Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda are already confirmed, with more expected as entries close. Rally fans are in for a treat, as the event brings together a mix of seasoned champions, rising talents, and inspiring stories.

The Kenyan contingent is particularly strong. Karan Patel, last year’s winner, will return in his Skoda Fabia R5, co-driven by Tauseef Khan, aiming to defend their title. Samman Vohra and Drew Sturrock are back to redeem themselves after a dramatic retirement on the final day of the previous edition. Meanwhile, Jasmeet Chana and co-driver Ravi Chana will make their first Uganda outing in a Ford Fiesta R5 under the ARC class.

Handicapped driver Sachania, who impressed fans last year with his determination and speed, will return in a Ford Fiesta, looking to improve on his previous performance. Other Kenyan entrants include Evans Kavisi and Absolom Aswani in ARC2, and Arkif Virani, who brings momentum from the recently concluded WRC Safari Rally. Debutants Joseph Gachecheh and Finnish co-driver Sofia Rantasalo will finally compete in Uganda in a Skoda Fabia R5, after missing the recent WRC Safari Rally due to logistical delays. Adding a unique story is the mother-daughter duo Tinashe Gatimu and Caroline Gatimu, set to compete and inspire rally fans.

Tanzania will be represented by reigning national champion Ahmed Huwel, driving a Toyota GR Yaris, aiming to kickstart his ARC campaign in Uganda on a strong note. His precision and experience make him a serious contender for the overall podium.

Rwanda is sending six crews, led by Queen Kalimpinya, the reigning Rwandan champion, in a Subaru Impreza GVB co-driven by Olivier Ngabo. Other top Rwandan crews include Christian Kanangire and Kevin Mujiji in a Subaru N12b, who impressed at the WRC Safari Rally, Eric Gakwaya and Kayibanda Aurore in a Subaru Impreza GVB, and Yoto Fabrice in a Subaru Impreza N11. With such a strong lineup, the Ugandan crews will face stiff competition on every stage.

The 2026 rally routes are largely similar to last year’s, with a few new sections introduced to challenge the crews further. The total rally distance is 569.16 km, with 201.85 km dedicated to competitive stages divided into 12 stages, and 367.31 km of liaison sections connecting them. Crews will face a mix of gravel, dirt, and tarmac, as well as elevation changes, sharp corners, and unpredictable weather.

The event kicks off on Thursday with a free practice stage followed by a qualifying stage that will determine starting positions. Day 2 features two long stages and a superspecial stage designed to test speed and consistency. Day 3 comprises eight long stages, including the rally’s longest stage, Kaguta, at 23.46 km, demanding endurance and concentration. The Robert Rukaari stage, the shortest at 6.19 km, will serve as the power stage, offering extra points for the fastest crews.

With a continental field of experienced champions, ambitious debutants, and local heroes, the 2026 Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally promises intense competition and thrilling battles across every stage. Fans can expect high-speed action, dramatic moments, and stories of resilience as drivers push their machines to the limit.

The stage is set, the engines are warming, and rally fans across Africa can look forward to an unforgettable motorsport spectacle from 7th to 9th May 2026 in Mbarara and Kiruhura.

Meet Nasib Pro The Rally Driver Driven by Passion

Nassib Sesanga, popularly known in motorsport circles as Nasib Pro, is a rally driver whose journey into the sport has been shaped by curiosity, persistence, and a deep-rooted passion for motorsport , a proud member of the Southern Motor Club, one of Uganda’s active rallying clubs.

Born in Entebbe, Nasib is the son of the late Mohammed Nsimbi and Lukia Nassazi. Before rallying became a central part of his life, he was an avid cricket fan. His exposure to motorsport came through family connections, as his late father worked with veteran rally driver Mzee Wyclif Bukenya, who competed in events around Kazzi. Although his father was not keen on his children getting involved in rallying, frequent stories about the sport sparked Nasib’s interest.

As a student, Nasib would often walk to Kazzi to watch rally cars in action. Witnessing the speed, sound, and spectacle of rallying left a lasting impression on him and gradually turned his curiosity into a clear ambition.

In 2011, Nasib took a major step by purchasing a Toyota Celica ST185 for UGX 8 million. He used the car as a daily driver for several years before eventually converting it into a full rally car. Over the years, the car has undergone multiple engine changes, but the original shell has remained in use for more than 15 years, reflecting Nasib’s commitment to consistency and long-term development.

Nasib made his competitive debut in 2022 at a sprint event held at Festino Cite, navigated by Mungufeni Phinias. While results were modest, completing the event and earning a medal marked an important milestone in his rally career.

Building on that experience, he competed in the 2023 Autocross Championship, which he successfully completed. In 2024, he progressed to the CRC class, completing the season in 2025 with a commendable 5th place overall finish. The result highlighted the value of discipline, steady improvement, and effective car management.

Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Nasib plans to continue campaigning his Toyota Celica pickup. He is also in discussions withPeter Brown Jr regarding a full season in the 2WD class, following his promotion from CRC.

A lifelong Toyota enthusiast, Nasib names the Toyota Yaris as his dream rally car, citing its affordability and competitive potential. He believes that manageable budgets and reliable machinery are key to sustained participation in the sport.

On the state of Ugandan motorsport, Nasib acknowledges the increasing competitiveness brought by newer and more powerful cars. While this may limit outright competitiveness for some drivers, he remains committed to staying involved for both competition and enjoyment. He also recognizes the rising talent in the sport, including Kevin Bebeto, Ahmed Katete, and Walter Kibande, among others.

Nasib credits his rally journey to strong support from Musa Kanakulya Masaka Rally Team, Mawogola Pharmacy, Njovu Estate Developers, MD Motorspares, Dr. Maseruka, fellow driver Walter Kibande, and above all, his mother, whose support has been instrumental in sustaining his rally ambitions.

From his early days watching rallies in Kazzi to competing on the national stage, Southern Motor Club member Nasib Procontinues to represent the spirit of grassroots rallying through passion, patience, and perseverance.

A Preview of the 2026 National Rally Championship

The 2026 National Rally Championship (NRC) is yet to commence, but preparations across the country indicate a season of heightened competition, expanded participation, and significant developments both on and off the stages. With teams finalizing their programs and new machinery entering the championship, expectations are steadily rising ahead of the opening round.

One of the major highlights of the 2026 season is the expanded calendar. Unlike previous seasons that featured seven rounds, the upcoming championship will comprise eight events. This additional round increases competitive opportunities while also placing greater emphasis on consistency and reliability across the season. Of particular interest is the central round, which remains unconfirmed in terms of location and organizing club. Scheduled as the final event of the season, this round could prove decisive in determining championship outcomes, especially if points margins remain narrow heading into the finale.

Mbale returns to the National Rally Championship calendar as host of the opening round, marking a significant moment for the region. Meanwhile, Soroti and Katakwi will host Round Four, introducing new competitive stages that drivers and co-drivers have not previously encountered in NRC competition. The inclusion of fresh routes is expected to challenge crews’ pace note preparation, adaptability, and overall strategy.

Beyond the championship rounds, motorsport also received recognition within the Buganda Kingdom sports calendar. The Kabaka Birthday Sprint and the Coronation Sprint have both been listed, raising optimism about the possible return of motorsport activity at the Lubiri circuit. Should this materialize, it would mark an important cultural and sporting milestone for Ugandan motorsport.

Attention is firmly fixed on the competitive field, where several major developments are shaping the 2026 season. Musa Ssegaabwe and co-driver Mathias Kiyegga are awaiting the arrival of their Škoda Fabia N5, which is reportedly en route. The crew recently traveled to Spain for inspection and testing and are confident the car will significantly strengthen their championship campaign. The Fabia is expected to arrive early next month, ahead of the opening round.

In the two-wheel-drive category, Dr. Godfrey Nsereko has reinforced his campaign with the acquisition of a Toyota Etios R2 from South Africa. The early arrival of the car has allowed adequate time for preparation and familiarization, positioning the team strongly ahead of the season.

Joshua Muwanguzi, now competing in a Subaru GVB acquired from Yasin Nasser, has also drawn attention. Although the team’s debut at the Kabalega Hoima Rally did not result in a podium finish, a strong stage performance on the opening day highlighted the car’s potential. With increased seat time, the crew is expected to become increasingly competitive.

A notable driver change ahead of the season is Oscar Ntambi’s move from a Subaru N10 to a Mitsubishi Evo X Ralliart previously owned by Adam Rauf. The car’s public launch at Busiika and subsequent performance at the Champions Sprint demonstrated its competitiveness. A full rebuild is underway, with the intention of contesting both NRC and ARC events in 2026.

Moses Lumala, who continues to receive condolences following the loss of his mother, remains one of the most anticipated entries. His Ford Fiesta MK2 NRC Proto, acquired from Latvia, has generated considerable interest. After extensive private testing at the Mityana track, Lumala reappeared at the Champions Sprint in Busiika, signaling a return to competitive action.

Didas Matsiko is also preparing for the new season with an upgrade from a Subaru Impreza WRX to a Subaru Impreza GVB. Once the car debuts, the team is expected to add further intensity to an already competitive field.

Dr. Henry Maseruka and the Gazzlers Rally Team have opted for a significant step up, moving from a Toyota RunX to a Subaru Impreza N14 acquired from Zambia’s Miles Monge. The car is currently undergoing a full rebuild, while Dr. Maseruka continues training and testing in preparation for the transition. The vehicle is expected to arrive in Uganda by February.

Among the younger competitors, Kevin Bebeto has parted ways with his Subaru N10 and is actively seeking a new car suitable for both NRC and ARC competition. Although details remain undisclosed, his next move is highly anticipated within the rally community.

Fresh from their CRC 2025 success, Walter Kibande and his team are also stepping up. The Subaru GC8 that carried them to the title is being replaced by a Subaru Impreza N14, expected to arrive in the coming months. This move positions the team for a more competitive presence in the national championship.

This marks the first part of the 2026 NRC season preview. The second installment will focus on class changes, returning competitors, and emerging crews set to influence the championship landscape. As preparations continue, it is evident that the 2026 National Rally Championship is shaping up to be one of the most competitive seasons in recent years.

Mbale Reclaims NRC Spotlight as 2026 Rally Season Approaches

After an eight-years, Mbale is set to once again take center stage on Uganda’s motorsport calendar as it hosts the opening round of the Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC). The last time the eastern Uganda town witnessed NRC action was in 2018, when the event organized by the Mosac Club served as the championship decider. That dramatic season finale crowned Susan Muwonge as the 2018 NRC champion.

Fast forward to 2026, and Mbale is back. This time, the Motorsport Promotion Uganda (MPU) Club will oversee the opening round of the national championship, scheduled for March 27–28, shortly after the Ramadan period. As tradition dictates, the season opener is more than just the first rally on the calendar it is the event that sets the tone, lays the strategic carpet, and offers early indications of which crews are truly in championship contention.

For many years, winning the opening round has almost been synonymous with winning the title. However, that long-standing trend was dramatically broken last season. Despite Ponsiano Lwakataka claiming victory in the opening round held in Mbarara, it was Ronald Ssebuguzi who ultimately emerged as the 2025 NRC champion, reminding the paddock that consistency, not just early dominance, wins championships.

As the countdown to Mbale begins, all signs point to a fiercely competitive 2026 season. The championship is already buzzing with activity, with several crews still shopping for their “weapons of choice,” others finalizing deals, and some eagerly awaiting the arrival of newly acquired machinery. Upgrades across classes are also on the cards, as teams reshuffle in pursuit of outright pace and championship advantage.

The Mbale opener is therefore expected to debut a number of new cars and fresh driver machine combinations. After several months of rally drought, drivers and fans alike will be thirsty for action. When the engines fire up in Mbale, it won’t just mark the return of NRC action to the region it will signal the beginning of what promises to be one of the most intriguing and competitive seasons in recent memory.

After an eight-year hiatus, Mbale is set to once again take center stage on Uganda’s motorsport calendar as it hosts the opening round of the Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC). The last time the eastern Uganda town witnessed NRC action was in 2018, when the event—organized by the Mosac Club—served as the championship decider. That dramatic season finale crowned Susan Muwonge as the 2018 NRC champion, etching Mbale’s name into the history books.

Fast forward to 2026, and Mbale is back. This time, the Motorsport Promotion Uganda (MPU) Club will oversee the opening round of the national championship, scheduled for March 27–28, shortly after the Ramadan period. As tradition dictates, the season opener is more than just the first rally on the calendar—it is the event that sets the tone, lays the strategic carpet, and offers early indications of which crews are truly in championship contention.

For many years, winning the opening round has almost been synonymous with winning the title. However, that long-standing trend was dramatically broken last season. Despite Ponsiano Lwakataka claiming victory in the opening round held in Mbarara, it was Ronald Ssebuguzi who ultimately emerged as the 2025 NRC champion, reminding the paddock that consistency, not just early dominance, wins championships.

As the countdown to Mbale begins, all signs point to a fiercely competitive 2026 season. The championship is already buzzing with activity, with several crews still shopping for their “weapons of choice,” others finalizing deals, and some eagerly awaiting the arrival of newly acquired machinery. Upgrades across classes are also on the cards, as teams reshuffle in pursuit of outright pace and championship advantage.

The Mbale opener is therefore expected to debut a number of new cars and fresh driver–machine combinations. After several months of rally drought, drivers and fans alike will be thirsty for action, dust, and adrenaline. When the engines fire up in Mbale, it won’t just mark the return of NRC action to the region—it will signal the beginning of what promises to be one of the most intriguing and competitive seasons in recent memory.

New Momentum as 2026 Rallying Season Approaches

While Uganda recently experienced a period of limited internet connectivity, the global rallying scene continued to move forward. Even during the digital blackout, our very own Southern Motor Club member remained attentive to developments within the sport, as teams abroad continued preparations and rally cars were being shipped across borders in readiness for the new season.

As the 2026 rallying season draws closer, activity within the motorsport fraternity is steadily increasing. Teams are already making strategic decisions, with several competitors retiring older machinery and investing in newer, more competitive cars. The off-season has become a period of serious preparation, signaling a highly competitive year ahead.

One development that has already drawn significant attention is the arrival of a Toyota Etios R2 owned by Dr Godfrey Nsereko, which landed in the country this week. This acquisition is expected to significantly influence the dynamics of the 2WD class, where competition has been steadily growing over recent seasons.

The Toyota Etios R2 is a former Guy Botterill car from South Africa and a proven performer, having won the South African National Championship four times consecutively. Its arrival introduces a new level of performance into the local 2WD category and suggests that the 2026 season will be far more competitive than before.

From a technical standpoint, the car is well equipped for top-level rallying. It features a five-speed sequential gearbox, a well-mapped MoTeC ECU, and brand-new Reiger shock absorbers. The vehicle runs on Avgas rather than standard pump fuel and is fully FIA-homologated, making it eligible to compete in both local events and the African Rally Championship.

The car also comes with an extensive spare parts package, ensuring reliability and consistency across multiple events. This level of preparation reflects a clear intention to compete at the highest possible level throughout the season.

Dr Nsereko’s motorsport journey further highlights the significance of this upgrade. He began his rally career in 2017 as a co-driver before transitioning to the driver’s seat in 2018, where he went on to win the CRC championship in his debut season as a driver. Over the years, he has driven several cars, including a Toyota Runx and a modified Subaru GC8 converted to 2WD, before returning to the Runx ahead of this latest step forward.

With the Toyota Etios R2 now in the country, expectations are high that the 2WD class will be one of the most competitive categories in the 2026 season. Dr Nsereko is widely anticipated to be among the leading contenders.

Focus now shifts to the opening round of the National Rally Championship, scheduled to take place in March in Mbale, shortly after Ramadan. As is often the case, the first event of the season will play a key role in setting the pace and strategy for the year ahead, with crews eager to begin the campaign strongly after an extended off-season.

The arrival of new machinery and renewed preparation across teams signals an exciting and competitive 2026 rallying season for Uganda.

Yasin Nasser & Ali Katumba Rise To Global Stardom

Tomorrow, December 12th, in the glittering city of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the motorsport world will gather for the prestigious 2025 FIA Awards a night where legends stand tall and dreams take flight under the theme “Dreams of a Champion.” Drivers from every continent will share one global spotlight. Yet among them, two sons of Uganda will glow with a pride money can’t buy.

Yasin Nasser and Ali Katumba the unstoppable crew who conquered Africa will step onto that stage to receive the FIA African Rally Championship (ARC) crown. Their names will be called not just as winners… but as history-makers. Uganda last celebrated this honor in 1999, when the late Charles Muhangi ascended to African greatness. Twenty-six years later, the torch burns bright again.

Their success is not forged in billion-euro facilities or luxury workshops. It is forged in the red African soil the rough roads of Uganda, the wild terrains of Kenya, the dusty winds of Tanzania. It is forged in sleepless nights, broken parts, rebuilt hope, and a Ford Fiesta Rally2 that carried their unshakable spirit from stage to stage until the title was theirs in Morogoro.

But tomorrow brings a moment beyond imagination:

Yasin Nasser standing in the same line-up as Lando Norris.
Ali Katumba sharing a global spotlight with Sébastien Ogier.

This is not just a medal ceremony.
It is a declaration that Uganda does not only cheer for champions. Uganda produces champions.And as the world celebrates our own continental kings, we must pause and reflect:

Uganda doesn’t get champions like this every day.

When we do, it is a sign a call a reminder.A reminder that motorsport is a national asset, a powerful force that can push tourism, inspire youth, open global doors, and spark entire industries in engineering, mechanics, technology, safety, and media.

A reminder that countries that invest in motorsport reap far more than trophies they build capacity, jobs, innovation, and identity.

Uganda has the talent.
Uganda has the passion.
Uganda has the potential.
All that is missing is greater government support, structured investment, and national-level recognition.

Yasin and Ali reached the top of Africa with limited resources.
Imagine what Uganda could achieve with proper funding, modern facilities, training programs, and motorsport infrastructure.

The next Charles Muhangi…
The next Yasin Nasser…
The next generation of champions…
They are out there. They just need a system that believes in them.

As the curtain rises in Tashkent, and Uganda’s flag appears before millions, Yasin and Ali will not only be receiving a trophy they will be carrying the hope of a nation. Hope that Uganda will take motorsport seriously. Hope that dreams born in our dust can rise to the world stage again and again.

Tomorrow, the world will stand and applaud them.
And Uganda must answer that applause with pride, action, and deeper commitment to a sport that continues to lift our national flag higher than ever before.

Ponsiano Lwakataka Takes a Break from Rallying

Twenty-five years of dust, danger, roaring engines, and an unshakable passion that refused to burn out  and now, suddenly, a silence. Uganda’s rally icon  and daredevil Ponsiano “Mafu Mafu” Lwakataka, has announced he is stepping away from active rallying, a decision that has sent a cold wave of disbelief through his loving fans. For a man who turned every stage into a battlefield and every corner into a lesson in courage, this pause feels like the end of an era  a moment that reminds us that even the strongest heroes sometimes need to breathe, reflect, and rebuild.

It is not the kind of story anyone prepares for. Not after a season where Lwakataka defied age, defied the odds, defied machinery itself  conquering 4 of the 7 NRC rallies and reminding the nation that legends are not born; they are forged in fire. But behind those shining victories stood a man who knew the truth in his heart: he was driving a machine that had given him everything it had left. His faithful Subaru Impreza N12b  the warrior he had pushed, punished, trusted, and carried to glory for six unforgettable years  could no longer fight against the new, faster generation of rally machines.

And so, for the first time in decades, Lwakataka has chosen to step back. Not in defeat, not in bitterness, but in humility. In gratitude. In a quiet, emotional acceptance that even the mightiest engines must one day rest. He steps away not as a fallen champion, but as a man who understands the beauty of knowing when to pause, breathe, and honor the journey that made him a legend.

Lwakataka’s story is not written in ink  it is carved in scars, dust, dents, and memories that have refused to fade. His journey began in 2000 at the Pearl of Africa Rally, where a young, hungry dreamer showed up in a humble Toyota Levin he had hustled to buy from Afande Lule for 3.5 million shillings. No one looked twice at Car 40, and even fewer expected anything Lwakataka codriven by the late Sgt. Pamba. But by Day 3, that quiet man had shaken the entire rally fraternity. From the belly of the pack, he fought his way up to an astonishing 3rd overall  a rise so electrifying it felt like watching destiny announce itself. And just when glory seemed within reach, fate twisted the knife: the Levin gave up barely 1km to the final flag.

Yet even in disappointment, Lwakataka walked away not as a defeated driver, but as a newly forged hero. His courage earned him a meritorious award  the first of many signs that Uganda had just witnessed the birth of a man who would one day redefine the sport.

In 2001, he stepped into a Subaru Legacy  a car that tested his spirit harder than any stage ever could. Out of 10 rallies, he finished only one, dragging the wounded machine across the Mbarara finish line for a modest 7th place. Most drivers would have walked away, defeated by the frustration, the cost, and the heartbreak. But Lwakataka was not “most drivers.” He refused to quit.

Then came 2002, and with it, the arrival of the N4. It was fast, wild, and unforgiving  a machine he rolled more times than he cares to count. Yet every time he did finish, he was right there among the top runners, proving that even in chaos, his talent was undeniable.

And then came 2003… the year that almost broke him. A horrific roll wrote off the car completely and left his codriver, Sgt. Pamba (RIP), without two fingers. For many, that would have been the final chapter  the moment fear takes over and the helmet goes into storage forever But for Lwakataka, it was not the end. It was just a bend in the road. A painful, life-changing bend.

He bought another N4, partnered with George Semakula, and what followed was nothing short of magic. Their chemistry was effortless, their determination identical, and by the end of the season they were ranked No. 3 in the country  a remarkable rebound from the ashes of the previous years. Then came 2004, with Lwakataka behind the wheel of a Subaru Impreza N6, quietly sharpening his claws, preparing for the explosion that would come in 2005: his first-ever NRC championship title. He would lift another crown in 2007, cementing his place among Uganda’s greatest.

In 2008, Lwakataka did something few champions ever do  he stepped aside and handed the mantle to his wife, Rose Lwakataka, with Semakula navigating. But legends do not sit still for long. The itch returned, the fire whispered, and by late 2009, he stormed back onto the scene with a vengeance. His weapon of choice was a fearsome Subaru Impreza N8, later christened “Magege,” a machine that terrorized competitors and dominated headlines. With Musa Nsubuga in the navigator’s seat, he delivered one of his greatest triumphs  winning the prestigious 2011 KCB Pearl of Africa Rally.

Then came 2019, a decade after the glory of Magege, when he acquired the Subaru Impreza N12b from Jas Mangat  a car that would become his loyal companion for six unforgettable years. A machine that carried his dreams, his battles, and his legacy… right up to this emotional moment of taking a breaak.

As emotional as this moment is for Ponsiano, he refuses to move forward without honoring those who held him up when life and rallying knocked him down: Shemi Senkatuka, whose Land Cruiser towed his car to countless venues; Mayanja Godfrey, treasurer and pillar behind the N12b fundraising; Mucakaze Jamil, the tireless coordinator who kept the team running; Mr. Sentamu, always ready with the car carrier; and all the Manyi Gabantu, mechanics, fans, and brothers who stood by him for over seven years — he bows deeply in gratitude. Yet even as he steps back, his heart has not retired, nor has his spirit dimmed. The fire inside him still burns, but the Subaru N12b can no longer match it. He promises that when funding allows, he will return  stronger, louder, faster. For now, however, the man who terrified stages, thrilled fans, and defied physics rests painfully, emotionally, but proudly. He leaves a happy man, a legend, and a space in Uganda’s rallying that only he can ever fill.

Kayira and Katumba Brave Mechanical Woes to Finish 6th in Rwanda Huye Rally

Uganda’s rally duo Faisal Kayira and Duncan Katumba put up a resilient performance to finish 6th overall in the just-concluded Rwanda Huye Rally, held in Butale District over the weekend.

The three-day event flagged off on Friday night with a thrilling qualifying stage in the heart of Huye town, where fans packed the streets to witness high-octane action. Driving their Subaru Impreza GC8, Kayira and Katumba showcased impressive pace, ending the opening day in 4th position, setting the tone for a competitive weekend.

Day Two started on a strong note for the Ugandan crew, who were seeded third on the road. However, their momentum was interrupted by a steering rack failure, forcing them to retire mid-stage. The team’s determination, however, shone through as they managed to fix the issue and rejoined the rally under Super Rally rules.

On the final day, disaster struck again when a ball joint broke, threatening their chances of a decent finish. But true to their fighting spirit, the pair battled through the mechanical setbacks, keeping their Subaru alive to cross the finish line securing 6th overall.

The event was ultimately won by Rwanda’s Christian Kanangire, who dominated the stages with consistent pace and flawless execution.

Despite the setbacks, Kayira and Katumba’s performance drew praise from fans and fellow competitors for their perseverance and sportsmanship

Lwakataka’s Hopes Hang by a Thread as Kalule Keeps SMC the Flag Flying

It has been a day filled with action, dust, and drama in the 6th round of the National Rally Championship  the CMC Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally 2025. From the first flag-off, it was clear that the rally gods had come hungry for stories, and boy, did they serve!

The day began on a promising note for Southern Motor Club’s (SMC) seasoned driver Ponsiano Lwakataka, who was right in the mix with Ronald Sebuguzi for top honors. Lwakataka stormed through the opening stage with intent, finishing 4th overall, and fans could smell a podium fight brewing. But just as the momentum built up, disaster struck. In the second stage, his Subaru N12 veered off the road and suffered severe damage  a heartbreak moment that left his championship hopes hanging by the thinnest of threads.

In true Lwakataka spirit, however, quitting is not part of the vocabulary. The veteran has since managed to fix his car and has vowed to return stronger tomorrow, hoping that Sebuguzi, his main rival, might falter and give him a lifeline in the title chase.

But while Lwakataka’s rally took an unfortunate twist, SMC’s flag continues to fly high through Peter Kalule and David Mwesigwa, who are putting up a spirited fight. The duo currently sit 4th overall, just behind Sebuguzi and ahead of Aine Sodo, who holds 5th position after a consistent display.

Further down the leaderboard, Faizal Kayira, co-driven by Prosperous Namara in a Subaru GC8, occupies 15th overall after a steady day behind the wheel.

In the 2WD class, SMC’s Julious “Mukalo” Semambo and Jaffer Lukenge are proving once again why they are among the most entertaining crews in the division. The pair currently lie 2nd, right behind the in-form Mansoor Lubega, who dominated most of the day. However, Semambo snatched a sweet stage win in the second loop of the Super Special Stage a clear statement that he’s not backing down without a fight.

As Day 1 comes to an end, the battle lines have been drawn. The rivalry between Mansoor Lubega and Julious Semambo in 2WD promises fireworks tomorrow, while fans wait to see if Lwakataka’s overnight repairs will yield a heroic comeback.

A Glimpse into the CMC Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally 2025

The sixth round of the Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC), the CMC Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally 2025, is set to take place this weekend in Gulu District. The event is expected to play a decisive role in determining the champions across all categories NRC, 2WD, and CRC as the season draws closer to its conclusion.

With five rounds completed and only two remaining, the championship battle remains tight. Ronald Sebuguzi and co-driver Anthony Mugambwa currently lead the NRC standings with 241 points, maintaining their advantage through consistency rather than outright wins. Despite not securing a single event victory this season, Sebuguzi’s steady performance has kept him at the top.

Close behind is Ponsiano Lwakataka, who has dominated the season with four wins out of five events, accumulating 235 points. Together with co-driver Paul Musazi, the pair will be competing in Gulu for the first time, determined to close the gap and potentially take the championship lead.

In third place is the young crew of Musa Ssegaabwe and Mathias Kiyegga with 207.5 points. The crew, competing in their debut NRC season after winning last year’s CRC title, has impressed with their consistent finishes. They are already preparing for an exciting 2026 season where they plan to unveil a new N5-spec car.

Further down the standings, Aine Sodo lies fourth with 140.5 points, Duncan Mubiru fifth with 138 points, and Michael Mukula sixth with 131 points, although Mukula will not participate in this event.

The rally will take place on Friday and Saturday, a shift from the traditional Saturday-Sunday format. The schedule has been adjusted to align with the Gulu City Carnival, where the rally will serve as a major highlight of the weekend festivities.

This year’s stages will follow routes similar to those used in 2024, with a few modifications. The familiarity of the terrain is expected to result in higher speeds and tighter competition as drivers aim to maximize points in the final stretch of the season.

The 2WD Championship remains one of the closest contests this year, with only 1.5 points separating the top two crews. Julious Semambo and Jaffer Lukenge currently lead the class with 86.5 points, followed closely by Mansoor Lubega and Bukenya Roald with 85 points.

Both crews head into Gulu with a clear objective  to secure victory and strengthen their title chances. In third place is Haji Amir Kavuma (65.5 points), followed by Edward Kirumira (60.5 points), Ibrahim Lubega (52.5 points), and Haji Senyonjo (33 points). Last year’s 2WD champion, Ibrahim Lubega, will be looking to bounce back after a challenging season.

The Clubman Rally Championship (CRC) continues to showcase emerging talent. Leading the standings is Walter Kibande alongside Rasta Farian codriver Duncan Katumba, with 75 points. The pair have displayed remarkable consistency, maintaining their position at the top since the season began.

In second place are Ahmed Kateete and Morgan Serugga with 60 points, while Kevin Bebeeto and Siraj Kyambade are third with 57 points. Bebeeto, who has shown great promise this season, remains optimistic about closing the gap in the remaining rounds. The CRC title race is still open, and the Gulu round will play a significant role in shaping the final standings.

A total of 27 crews have confirmed their entries for the rally, featuring both championship contenders and strong independent competitors. Among them are notable names such as Duncan Mubiru, Omar Dauda, and Oscar Ntambi, who are all expected to add depth and excitement to the event.