As the motorsport world turns its attention to Kenya, Kampala finds itself unusually quiet almost suspiciously so. Did someone ban Subarus? Nope. The real reason? A mass migration of rally fans stampeding toward Nairobi for the much-anticipated WRC Safari Rally 2025. From all corners of Uganda, passionate motorsport enthusiasts have embarked on their great pilgrimage, some squeezing into overloaded vans, others strapping jerrycans of fuel to their cars like they’re entering the rally themselves. Many have already crossed the border, fighting off sleep after all-night road trips, determined to secure prime spots for the action. With the shakedown stage kicking off at 10 AM tomorrow, the only thing louder than the roaring rally cars will be the Ugandans shouting, “Oyee!”
This year’s event promises to deliver excitement like never before, especially for Ugandan rally fans, as two Ugandan crews prepare to fly the national flag high and proud. Yasin Nasser and co-driver Ali Katumba are making their triumphant return after last year’s dramatic heartbreak when their Ford Fiesta R5 decided to take an impromptu tumble and end their rally early. But this time, they’re back with a renewed fire in their bellies, determined to show the world what they’re made of and to fight tooth and nail for a top spot. With their sights set on finishing strong, they’re not just racing against the clock they’re racing to make up for lost time!
Joining the Ugandan charge is Timothy Gawaya, co-driven by Wamala Francis, in their Seat Ibiza .it’s not the fastest car in the field, but it’s got plenty of heart and a lot of character. Unlike their more seasoned counterparts, their mission is refreshingly straightforward: participate and survive the gruelling Safari Rally. For them, it’s not about podiums or glory (this time); it’s about gaining priceless experience on one of the world’s most unforgiving rally terrains. After all, every legend starts somewhere, and maybe this Seat Ibiza will be the unsung hero of their journey!
Flying Uganda’s flag on the co-driver’s seat is none other than Mildred Kubuuka, who’s all set to navigate Kenya’s rising star Timothy Kinoti through the gruelling Safari terrain in a Toyota Runx—because who needs a fancy car when you’ve got skill and guts? The duo will be competing in the 2WD class, where they’ll be giving it everything they’ve got, and hoping their trusty Toyota doesn’t end up in the middle of a safari itself!
Beyond being a highlight on the WRC calendar, the Safari Rally also serves as the opening round of the African Rally Championship (ARC). With its unforgiving terrain, unpredictable weather, and gruelling stages, it remains one of the most demanding and prestigious rallies in the world.
Right now, Ugandan roads are alive with the buzz of vans, buses, and convoys of die-hard fans making their way to Naivasha, each one practically vibrating with excitement. Whether cruising in personal cars plastered with rally team stickers or squeezed into fully booked buses, the energy is electric, and you can almost hear the engines revving in anticipation. Social media is ablaze with updates fans sharing everything from scenic pit stops to rally fever-induced selfies, giving everyone a front-row seat to their journey as they inch closer to the heart-pounding action.
For those left behind, Kampala is noticeably quieter than usual. Rally talk dominates conversations in motorsport circles, but the true adrenaline rush is happening on the roads leading to Naivasha, Kenya. And for those left behind, Kampala feels unusually quiet like the calm before the storm. Rally talk dominates every conversation in motorsport circles, with fans sharing predictions, strategies, and plenty of good-natured banter. But the real adrenaline rush is happening on the roads heading to Naivasha, Kenya, where the real action is unfolding. It’s like everyone’s heart is racing in unison, even if they’re not physically there just waiting for the moment when the engines roar and the rally madness takes over!
With less than 24 hours to go, all eyes are on the WRC Safari Rally 2025. Fans, teams, and officials alike are bracing themselves for a weekend filled with high-speed drama, mechanical battles, and breathtaking moments that define the spirit of rallying.
