Samuel Bwette
- Nickname: Kawunyemu
- Nationality: Ugandan
- Profession: Rally Driver / Businessman
- Team: Kawunyemu Rally Team
- Car: Subaru Impreza N14
- Co-driver: Urban Mulindwa
Category: NRC
Overview
Samuel Bwette, widely known as “Kawunyemu” in Ugandan motorsport circles, has made a name for himself in national rally events , with appearances in selected African Rally Championship rounds. He is one of those passionate drivers who show up not just to compete but to give fans something to talk about on the way home.
Bwette built his career through local rally competitions, steadily climbing into the national scene. Like many Ugandan drivers, his journey has been a mix of grit, determination, and a few “character-building” moments. Over time, he has earned respect for taking on some of the country’s top drivers.
Driving Style
Known for his aggressive driving style “flat out” is not just a phrase, it’s more like a lifestyle. Fans love him because when Kawunyemu is on stage, you’re guaranteed action. On gravel, he pushes the car to its limits and occasionally slightly beyond, just to check if the limits were serious or just suggestions.
His approach mixes bold risk-taking with a strong competitive spirit. Whether he’s chasing times or just trying to keep all four wheels pointed in the same direction, one thing is certain he never drives boring stages.
Co-driver Partnerships
Throughout his career, Bwette has worked with several co-drivers who have helped translate speed into results. Urban Mulindwa has been one of his key partners, while Hamza Lwanga (Bidugu) has also featured in some campaigns.
These co-drivers don’t just read pace notes they sometimes double as motivational speakers, emergency planners, and in some moments, unofficial prayer leaders when things get a bit “Kawunyemu-style” fast.
Vehicle
Bwette has handled different rally machines over the years. He was strongly associated with the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX during his earlier NRC days, a car that helped build his reputation.
More recently, he has been linked to Subaru Impreza builds, including the N14 he prepares for major events like the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally 2026. The Subaru has proven to be a solid weapon when it behaves. And when it doesn’t… well, that’s part of the rally story.
Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally 2026 Expectations
Bwette is no stranger to the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally, having tackled the event multiple times and gathered valuable experience This year, he returns with a clear mission: finish the rally and collect maximum points to boost his chances in the KCB National Rally Championship title race.
The strategy is simple stay clean, avoid unnecessary risks, and resist the temptation to turn every stage into a highlight reel though knowing Kawunyemu, that last part might be negotiable.
