The engines are still silent, but Uganda’s Safari Rally journey has already begun.
At Lugogo, the Federation of Motorsports Clubs of Uganda (FMU) officially flagged off Team Uganda to the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2026 in a ceremony overseen by the National Council of Sports (NCS).
The national flag was handed to leading driver Duncan Mubiru, popularly known as “Kikankane,” by NCS Assistant General Secretary (Technical) Milton Chebet.
It was a simple gesture, but one that symbolised Uganda’s ambition as it heads to one of the toughest rounds on the FIA World Rally Championship calendar.
Uganda will field four crews in the African Rally Championship (ARC) category, chasing vital continental points.
Reigning African champions Yasin Nasser and Ali Katumba lead the team in a Ford Fiesta Rally2.
They are joined by Duncan Mubiru and Joseph Kamya (Subaru Impreza WRX STI – ARC 2), Oscar Ntambi and Asuman Muhammadi (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X – ARC 2), and Timothy Gawaya with Francis Wamala in a SEAT Ibiza.
The Safari Rally is famous for rough gravel, unpredictable weather and brutal mechanical demands.
It tests endurance as much as speed. For the Ugandan crews, it is both a battlefield and an opportunity to strengthen their championship push.
To support the team, FMU has committed UGX 40 million towards travel and logistics, easing the financial strain of competing at this level.
Uganda’s impact will extend beyond the drivers. FMU has secured slots for 14 Ugandan officials to understudy experienced, FIA-accredited WRC personnel in areas such as course management and safety operations.
Among them are Enock Olinga (Deputy Clerk of Course), Alfred Mutanda (Assistant Clerk of Course), Moses Seguya (Scrutineer) and Nanette P. Blick (Special Safety Stage Officer).
Others will serve in stage command and safety roles, while Jamil L. Mucakaze joins as a Safety Convoy Trainee.
The aim is clear, gain world class experience and apply it at home, especially in strengthening the National Rally Championship and improving standards at the upcoming Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally.
FMU thanked the Government of Uganda, through NCS, for its continued support that enables athletes and officials to compete internationally.
The federation also recognised corporate partners KCB Bank Uganda for backing the sport and its crews.
Rallying offers unmatched visibility as cars race across towns, districts and borders. But it is an expensive sport.
FMU has urged more companies to invest in drivers and the national championship, highlighting motorsport’s role in youth engagement and tourism promotion.
