As the global rallying community prepares for the 2026 WRC Safari Rally scheduled for March 12–15 and serving as the third round of the 2026 World Rally Championship as well as the opening round of the Africa Rally Championship Uganda will once again have national representation on the start line.
Last year’s Safari Rally, held from March 20–23, 2025 in Kenya, saw Ugandan drivers test their mettle on one of the world’s toughest rally stages.
Two crews flew the Uganda flag in the WRC event, Yasin Nasser and co-driver Ali Katumba in a Ford Fiesta Rally2, and Timothy Gawaya with co-driver Francis Wamala in a Seat Ibiza.
Both crews competed against a mix of global stars and regional contenders in a field of 39 crews, including top tier Rally1 machines and seasoned local competitors.
Nasser and Katumba multiple national championship winners endured mixed fortunes in prior Safari appearances.
Their 2025 campaign was marked by challenges as they sought to finish the legendary event after earlier exits due to mechanical problems and a heavy roll in the 2024 edition.
Meanwhile, Gawaya made a spirited debut, bringing fresh energy to Uganda’s rallying contingent.
Rumours had swirled about whether Nasser and Katumba would return to defend their African Rally Championship crown this season, but confirmation of their participation in the 2026 Safari Rally has not been announced.
In a new chapter for Ugandan rallying, Oscar Ntambi and Asuman Mohammed are confirmed as the country’s sole representatives at this year’s Safari Rally.
The crew recently acquired a Mitsubishi EvoX from Adam Rauf, a competitive machine fully qualified for this high-caliber world event.
Ntambi, speaking exclusively ahead of the journey to Kenya, underscored the pride and pressure of representing Uganda on the international stage; “With the backing of KCB Bank, which has pledged full support for our campaign, we’re committed to flying the Uganda flag high. This opportunity is a dream come true, and we are preparing every aspect from physical training to vehicle setup to compete at the highest level.”
KCB Bank’s support has been crucial in developing rally talent and logistics across regional motorsport, backing several drivers in recent seasons.
The WRC Safari Rally is notorious for its unpredictable terrain from dusty plains to slippery mud and rugged ground that tests man and machine alike.
As both a world championship round and an ARC opener, the event will offers competitors a dual challenge as some will earn valuable WRC points while others will begin the continental title hunt.
For Ntambi and Asuman, this year’s rally isn’t just about competing it’s about establishing Uganda as a consistent force in East African and world rallying circles.
With past experience from national and regional events, and now with solid institutional backing, the pair head into the event with optimism.
