QUEEN KALIMPINYA

Full Name: Queen Kalimpinya
Nationality: Rwandan
Date of Birth: 6th August 1998
Place of Birth: Gasabo, Kigali, Rwanda
Profession: Rally Driver, Brand Ambassador, Former Beauty Queen
Co-driver: Olivier Ngabo
Car: Subaru Impreza GVB
Team: Queen Rally Team

Overview:
Queen Kalimpinya is one of the most prominent female figures in East African motorsport, combining talent, determination, and influence both on and off the rally stages. Born in Gasabo, Kigali, and raised partly in Gitega, she has developed into a strong and ambitious competitor, earning recognition as both a rally driver and a role model for young women across the region.

Entry into Motorsport:
Kalimpinya began her journey in motorsport in 2019 as a co-driver, where she gained valuable experience in pace note reading, timing, and rally discipline. This period laid a solid technical foundation that enabled her transition into driving. In 2022, she made history by becoming the first Rwandan woman to compete as a rally driver, making her debut at the Mountain Gorilla Rally. This marked a significant milestone not only in her personal career but also in the advancement of women’s participation in Rwandan motorsport.

Career Achievements:
Since her debut, Kalimpinya has shown steady growth within the Rwanda National Rally Championship, improving her pace and consistency with each event. Her performances have demonstrated both courage and determination as she competes against more experienced crews.

One of her standout achievements came at the Huye Rally 2024, where she was crowned Best Female Driver and secured an impressive third-place overall finish as if that’s not enough, she is the reigning Rwanda National Rally champion.

International Experience:
Kalimpinya has also competed on the international stage, participating in the WRC Safari Rally Kenya, where she became the first Rwandan woman to enter the prestigious event. Competing at this level has exposed her to tougher competition and challenging stages, contributing significantly to her development as a driver.

Partnership:
She is partnered with co-driver Olivier Ngabo, a skilled navigator and mechanical engineer. Since forming their partnership around 2023, the crew has developed strong chemistry, becoming one of Rwanda’s most promising rally crews. Their collaboration is built on trust and effective communication key elements in rally success.

Vehicle and Progression:
Kalimpinya has progressed through different rally machines, starting with the Subaru GC8 before upgrading to the more competitive Subaru Impreza WRX STI GVB. This transition reflects her growth as a driver and her move toward higher levels of competition, where speed and technical demands are greater.

Contribution and Influence:
Beyond motorsport, Queen Kalimpinya is actively involved in social initiatives. She is a co-founder of Bambe Clubs, an organization focused on youth empowerment and sexual and reproductive health awareness. She is also a strong advocate for women in motorsport, using her platform to inspire more girls to pursue careers in rallying and challenge societal barriers.

Pearl of Africa Rally 2026 Outlook:
The Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally 2026 marks Kalimpinya’s first competitive outing in Uganda. Entering the event with growing experience and a competitive car, she aims to deliver a strong performance while gaining further exposure at the regional level. With determination, improving pace, and a solid partnership, she is expected to be a competitive presence, particularly within her category, as she continues to build her profile in African rallying.

Summary:
Queen Kalimpinya represents progress, resilience, and the growing role of women in African motorsport. From her historic debut to her continued rise through the ranks, she has established herself as both a capable competitor and an influential figure in the sport. Her journey continues to inspire a new generation of female drivers across the region.