The silence of western Uganda is about to be shattered by turbochargers and flying gravel, as foreign rally crews begin streaming into the country for the highly anticipated Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally 2026.
With Mbarara and Kiruhura District preparing to host East Africa’s finest drivers, the rally fever has officially gripped Uganda, and fans know one thing for sure when the foreign number plates start arriving, the battle is real.
The first international team to touch down this morning was the Tanzanian crew of Ahmed Huwel, who arrived together with their Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 machine.
The car is currently stationed at Moil Banda, where the team is carrying out final preparations before leaving tomorrow morning for Mityana for a test session.
After the Mityana run, the Tanzanian crew is expected to proceed to Mbarara on Monday, where the rally base is already beginning to come alive with activity.
Hotels, service parks, and fuel stations are steadily filling up as teams and supporters make early arrivals.
Meanwhile, Kenyan service crews were seen crossing the border this afternoon as they made their way into Kampala.
They are expected to continue their journey westward shortly, joining other competitors preparing for one of the biggest motorsport events on the regional calendar.
Several local crews are also expected to set off tomorrow for Mbarara in time to organize themselves for the long and demanding rally week ahead.
Mechanics are busy in workshops, co-drivers are reviewing notes, and drivers are already making bold promises before the first stage has even started.
This year’s edition of the Pearl of Africa Rally is shaping up to be one of the strongest in recent years, with an impressive mix of foreign challengers and Uganda’s top rally stars all battling for top honours.
Scrutineering for ARC crews and selected local entries is set for Wednesday, where the cars will undergo final inspection before being cleared to compete.
On Thursday, qualifying and shakedown will take place at Mwesigwa Resort, giving fans their first close-up look at the machines in action.
The first full day of competition begins on Friday with three long stages rotating through Akageti, where official viewing points will be stationed for fans.
Day two on Saturday will be a repeat of the same stages, promising another thrilling day of dust, speed, and drama.
