By Frank Kaheesi-

Uganda’s motocross team, the Cranes, soared to a remarkable third-place finish at the FIM-Africa Motocross of African Nations (MXoAN) held in Harare, Zimbabwe, proudly bringing home bronze after a weekend of action.

The Ugandan riders ready for the track in Zimbabwe on Friday Morning

The Ugandans battled against some of Africa’s best, securing 284 points to cement their spot on the podium. Hosts Zimbabwe claimed silver with 468 points, while the ever-dominant South Africa reigned supreme with 717 points, sweeping multiple categories including MX50, MX65, MX Elite, MX125, MX2, and WMX.

For Uganda, the podium finish was further sweetened by historic victories in the junior ladies’ categories. Rising stars Hellena Birungi Ainomugisha and Jamairah Makumbi struck gold in MX50 Ladies and MX65 Ladies,

Uganda’s junior ranks proved unstoppable, taking all three podium places in both MX50 Ladies and MX65 Ladies. In MX50, Abigail Katende secured second while Abigail Muwanguzi clinched third. In MX65, Faith Angel Deedan and Joy Norah Akao followed Makumbi to complete a clean sweep.

Birungi’s performance was especially noteworthy as she not only defended her 2024 African Women’s Championship title but also competed head-to-head with boys in the mixed 50CC race, finishing an impressive 12th overall.

Other standout contributors included Jaysen Katek, Isreal Mpuga, Alber Muwanguzi, and Janan Makumbi, all of whom added crucial points for the Cranes. In the MX125 class, team captain Gift Tabula Ssebuguzi displayed unshakable consistency, finishing fifth in all three heats.

Uganda also fielded strong riders across various categories: Ethan Paul and Jude Musedde in MX65, Miguel and Jonathan Katende alongside Ethan Katek in MX Elite, while Waleed Omar and Wazir Ali Omar battled in MX2 and MX1, respectively.

FMU Deputy Vice President of Motorcycling and team manager Arthur Blick Jr. praised the squad’s grit:

“I would like to welcome back Team Uganda for achieving a successful podium finish at the continental event. Competing on a fully sandy track, unlike the hard surfaces we train on at home, was a huge challenge, but the team showed great adaptability and spirit.”

The 2025 MXoAN featured riders from eight nations, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, Madagascar, Uganda, and Kenya. With over 200 competitors across junior and senior levels, it was one of the most competitive editions in recent years.

2025 MXoAN Overall Classifications:

  1. South Africa 717
  2. Zimbabwe 468
  3. Uganda 284
  4. Namibia 281
  5. Botswana 159

For Uganda, this bronze medal building on last year’s silver in Marrakech, Morocco signals a steady rise in continental motocross. With young talents like Birungi and Makumbi leading the charge, the Cranes look set for even greater success when the event heads to Namibia in 2026.

After two days of action, the curtains have finally fallen on the Rally International du Burundi 2025, with Kenyan speedster Samman Vohra, co-driven by Scotsman Drew Sturrock, putting on a flawless display of rally mastery. Behind the wheel of his Skoda Fabia R5, Vohra swept all 15 stages to emerge as the overall winner, cementing his reputation as one of Africa’s fastest rising rally stars.

Vohra clocked a commanding total time of 1:44:21, a performance that not only sealed the Burundi win but also propelled him into 2nd position on the Africa Rally Championship (ARC) leaderboard with just one round left on the calendar  the season finale in Tanzania.

Kenya’s Samman Vohra in action during the Rwanda Mt Gorilla Rally Photo by Innocent Mutaawe

In second place overall was Uganda’s crew of Yasin Nasser and Ali Katumba, piloting their Ford Fiesta R5. The pair finished in 1:54:59, a massive 10 minutes and 27 seconds adrift of Vohra. But for Yasin, the mission was clear from the start  protect the championship lead. And he did just that. With his strategic second-place finish, Yasin now stands just one event away from being crowned 2025 African Rally Champion.

Tanzania’s Prince Nyerere had a rally to forget after early car troubles sidelined him from contention. However, he managed to bounce back into the top ten, finishing 9th overall and 3rd in the ARC class, keeping his hopes alive.

In the National Rally Championship (NRC) category victory went to , Rashnali Mohamed and Christophe Bigirimana, under Moil Racing colours, thrilled home fans by taking 3rd place overall in a Subaru Impreza GVB, clocking 2:02:57.

Massoud Fahd with co-driver Yunus Mohamed in a Subaru Impreza. finished 4th overall with a time of 2:07:32, securing 2nd in the NRC rankings. Rounding off the top five overall was the Subaru crew of Faida Philbert and Guy Melherbe, who clocked 2:10:39.

As the championship heads to Tanzania for the final showdown, all eyes are on the title fight. The mathematics are simple: if Yasin Nasser finishes second or higher, he will be crowned 2025 African Rally Champion  the ultimate prize after a season of consistency and determination.

ARC Standings After Burundi:

  1. Yasin Nasser – 114 points
  2. Samman Vohra – 106 points
  3. Nikhil Sachania – 77 points

The stage is set for Tanzania. Will Nasser hold his nerve and seal the crown, or will Vohra pull off one last masterstroke? Rally fans across the continent can only wait in excitement.

The roar of engines may only start tomorrow, but the excitement is already shaking the ground in Donbrook, Harare! Uganda’s 2025 MXoAN Team – famously known as the MX Cranes ,  have safely reunited with their bikes, marking the official countdown to an action-packed weekend of motocross glory.

After days on the road, battling heat, dust, and unexpected delays at the border (due to Zimbabwe’s public holidays), the long-awaited moment finally came riders being joyfully reunited with their beloved machines. The smiles, hugs, and even a few victory jumps at the pits told the whole story: The Cranes are ready for takeoff!

offloading Bikes in Harare

Today, Friday 15th August, was Documentation and Scrutineering Day. The MX Cranes had a 12:00 noon slot and, true to their professional form, the team was in and out within the hour. Bikes passed inspections, riders cleared their paperwork, and spirits were sky-high.

Team Manager, beaming with pride, noted:

“The riders are in great shape, both mentally and physically. We know the competition will be tough, but the energy in this camp is something special. We’re here to give it our all for Uganda!”

Uganda will be represented across various categories as follows:

PW50 Demo

The Muwanguzi riders ready for practice in Harare

MX50

Female MX50

MX65

White Bib MX65

Female MX65

MX Lites

MX125

MX2

MX1

WMX

MX Vets

From the tiniest 50cc warriors to the thunderous MXVets powerhouses, every rider here carries the pride of Uganda. The MX Cranes are not just here to race – they’re here to show the heart, grit, and talent that makes Uganda a motocross powerhouse in Africa.

With the team’s bikes prepped and riders eager for competition, the stage is set for Uganda to make a powerful statement at the 2025 edition of the Motocross of African Nations (MXoAN) in Zimbabwe. Fans back home will be watching closely as the MX Cranes chase glory on the regional stage.

Special thanks to the Orland Family, Extreme Adventure Park, Uganda Airlines, Shell Advance, the Government of Uganda, the National Council of Sports, Ali Omar, and all rider parents the real MVPs who sacrifice, cheer, and make it happen, for their tremendous efforts and support in making this journey possible.

Tomorrow, the gates drop, the dirt flies, and the fight for glory begins. Whether it’s battling for the holeshot or making a comeback from the back of the pack, one thing is certain – the MX Cranes will give it their all for the Pearl of Africa.

Stay tuned for live updates, results, and behind-the-scenes moments on All our social media handles as Uganda chases MXoAN 2025 glory in Zimbabwe

AGS

The Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) is thrilled to announce that Fort Portal and Kyegegwa districts will host the fifth round of the 2025 Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC) from Friday, 22nd August to Sunday, 24th August.

KCB sponsored Crew at the Launch

This event, organized by the United Motorsport Club (UMC) one of the oldest and most respected motorsport institutions in Uganda  will traverse the scenic yet challenging landscapes of Kyenjojo and Fort Portal, covering 280 km in total: 125 km of competitive racing and 155 km of liaison sections.

Fans can expect a mix of narrow technical tracks, high-speed straights, and unpredictable weather conditions that will test both driver skill and machine endurance.

Beyond the racing, FMU continues to use motorsport as a vehicle to promote tourism and local economic activity. By taking NRC events to different regions, FMU draws thousands of visitors who spend on accommodation, food, and cultural experiences — leaving a positive impact long after the engines go silent.

FMU GS giving his remarks. Photo by Ham

FMU General Secretary Reynolds Kibira  extended heartfelt appreciation to the event’s sponsors: KCB Bank, Redsun International, WorldWide Movers, and Trademate Cloud, among others,  whose support is instrumental in making the championship possible.

He also applauded United Motorsport Club (UMC) for their dedication in organizing this prestigious round and for maintaining a tradition of professionalism and safety in Ugandan rallying.

“By bringing our events to unique parts of Uganda, we are showcasing the beauty of our country while fueling local tourism and giving fans unforgettable experiences,” he emphasized.

Some of the fans in one of the events. Photo by Innocent Mutaawe

Day 1 – Kyenjojo: Tight Corners & Town Showdowns

The rally will kick off on Friday, 22nd August with scrutineering in Fort Portal, ensuring all cars meet technical and safety requirements. This will be followed by the ceremonial start at Panorama Hotel, a festive occasion that will introduce teams and drivers to the fans.

Saturday’s competitive action begins in Kyenjojo, featuring two stages run twice, plus a thrilling superspecial stage right in the middle of town — an unmissable spectacle for motorsport lovers.

Day 2 – Fort Portal: Speed, Jumps & a Decisive Power Stage

Sunday shifts the action to Fort Portal, with three competitive routes  two repeated  offering a mix of scenic beauty and motorsport intensity.

From tight technical corners in Kyenjojo to high-speed jumps in Fort Portal, Round 5 of the NRC promises drama, skill, and fierce competition. Motorsport enthusiasts, photographers, and casual fans alike are encouraged to make the trip and experience the rally atmosphere firsthand.

Mark your calendars, pack your cameras, and prepare for a motorsport weekend like no other in the heart of Western Uganda!

Jackson Jay

Assistant General Secretary (FMU)

The roar of engines, the thrill of the chase, and the spirit of competition filled the air as the second round of the Mountain Dew Uganda National Motocross Championship was successfully held at Victoria Race Track. Special thanks to the event sponsors: Mountain Dew, Shell Advance, Lato Milk, Worldwide Movers, Rubaga Dental Surgery, and other contributors who made this electrifying event possible. Organized by the Speedway Motorsport Club (SMOC), the event was an adrenaline pumping spectacle as riders pushed their limits to secure crucial championship points.

Roneta Ssebuguzi was on fire, strengthening her lead in the MX 50 Junior Ladies category. She now sits 19 points clear of her closest rival, Grace Deedan, making a bold statement in the championship race.

Abigail Muwanguzi. photo by Lyan

In the MX 50 Junior class, Harvey Kigundu showed no signs of slowing down, extending his lead to 117 points. Sentamu Favour put up an impressive fight, winning the second heat and securing second place with 95 points. Roneta Ssebuguzi maintained her third position with 84 points. Meanwhile, Kayira Carey and Kaye Richard had a fantastic evening, with Kaye completing the podium in third place.

 

The MX 50 Senior category saw an intense battle, with Israel Mpuga emerging victorious, closely chased by Abigail Katende in second place and Birungi Hellena in third. John Patrick Muwonge and Jayson Katek delivered standout performances, keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats. The championship standings saw a shake-up, with Abigail Katende now leading at 106 points, followed by Hellena Birungi with 95 points. Israel Mpuga dropped to third with 92 points, while Abigail Muwanguzi and Jayson Katek remain contenders with 80 and 72 points, respectively.

When the dust settled in the MX 65 class, Haiden Kaliisa emerged as the star of the day, seizing a golden opportunity to claim victory! The drama unfolded in the third heat when Ethan Musede, who had dominated the first two heats, lost valuable time, slipping down to third place.

Sensing the opening, Jude Kyle Musede went full throttle, pushing harder than ever, and his determination paid off with a wellcearned second place. Meanwhile, Jamairah Makumbi showcased incredible consistency throughout the round, racking up 39 points just enough to secure fourth place.

With Round 2 shaking up the standings, there’s a new leader in town Ethan Musede sits on top with 95 points, but Haiden Kaliisa is hot on his heels with 88! Not far behind, Jude Kyle Musede stays in the mix with 86 points, while Jamairah Makumbi keeps the boys in check, trailing Jude by just four points. The championship battle is heating up, and it’s game on for the next round!

The MX 85 class was pure entertainment, featuring a dominant performance by Miguel Katende, who swept all the heats and proved that his return means business. His brother Jonathan Katende followed in second place, while Jassa Ethern chased the Katende brothers to secure third place. Adam Kabuye, Ashram Makumbi, and Talha Kateete put up a strong fight. Miguel Katende took his momentum further, stepping into the deep waters of the MX1 and MX2 third heat, where he finished an impressive fifth. He is proving to be a tough rider and a force to be reckoned with.

Gift Malcom Ssebuguzi was in a league of his own in the MX 125 category, winning all heats and securing maximum points to strengthen his championship lead to 120 points. Not content with just that, he took on the MX1 and MX2 classes and finished second on the podium. Meanwhile, the battle between Jerome Mubiru and Dan Mitima had fans cheering as the two riders put on an exhilarating show. Dan secured second place, with Jerome finishing third. Jason Burrows’ consistency saw him finish fourth, reinforcing his third-place position in the championship standings with 84 points.

The MX2 class delivered another gripping contest, with Ssendaula Jovan emerging as the winner, collecting 47 points. Habib Kiggundu took second place with 44 points, while Malcom Omoding came in third with 43 points. In the MX2 Ladies category, Swansi Sambo claimed victory, finishing ninth overall  and 1st in the ladies category, with Asia Kasirye in second and Kateete Shadia in third. Despite failing to finish the first heat, Shadia made a remarkable comeback and collected 32 points.

The MX1 class was a high-speed thriller, with Maxime Van Pee and Ashim Sserwadda giving fans a breathtaking show. Van Pee finished third with 45 points, while Sserwadda claimed second place with 49 points. However, the day belonged to Sentamu Fortune, who was untouchable, winning all heats and securing 60 points. With this win, Sentamu is making his presence known in the championship race as he now chases Ashim, who leads with 109 points. Van Pee sits in second with 92 points, followed closely by Isma Mukiibi with 90 points.

The Vets class saw a dramatic turn of events as Kayira failed to finish the third heat, dropping to third place with 40 points. This allowed Ssebunya Rogers, who had been patiently pushing, to seize the victory. Ashi Young claimed second place with 41 points. The lone lady in this category, Nakiwala Arithea, continued to dominate, strengthening her lead in the Ladies category and she is  third overall in the championship. Ssebunya now leads the championship standings with 114 points, with JB Achal following in second with 90 points.

photo By: Lyan

As the dust settles on Round 2, the championship race is heating up! The third round will be a crucial battleground as riders push for more points and strive to cement their place at the top. Get ready for another adrenaline-fueled showdown!

Jackson Jay

AGS

All roads will lead to Garuga on March 2, 2025, as the ultimate battle for championship points revs up at the Victoria Race Track in Entebbe! Buckle up for a high-octane showdown as riders push their limits, leaving nothing but dust and adrenaline in their wake!

Organised by SMOC and sponsored by Shell Advance, Lato Milk, Worldwide Movers, Fire and Safety Appliances, and Rubaga Dental Surgery, this round promises jaw-dropping jumps, heart-stopping drifts, and electrifying action across all classes.

In MX 50 Junior, Harvey Kigunddu is blazing the track, but rivals Sentamu Favour and Roneta Ssebuguzi aren’t backing down! Tied at 47 points, just 13 behind the leader, these young daredevils are ready to turn up the heat. Will Kigunddu hold his ground, or will an upset shake up the standings?

The MX 50 Senior class is a pressure cooker! 2024 African champion Hellena  Birungi  is feeling the heat as she clings to  five-points behind Abigail Katende . But Muwanguzi Abigail is revving up to snatch the podium from a field of fierce competitors, including Israel Mpuga, JP Muwonge, and more. Expect fireworks!

In MX 65, Lally Sekamwa must bring his A-game as the Musede brothers, Ethan and Kyle, close in like predators on the hunt! And let’s not forget Haiden Kaliisa, who’s just two points away from breaking into the podium. The chase is on!

MX 85, The Katende brothers, Miguel and Jonathan, have made this class their kingdom but challengers are lining up for the throne! Isaac Mutima, who had a rocky Round 1, is fired up and ready to break the Katende dominance. Ashraf Mbabazi Jr and Adam Kabuye are also charging forward, making this an unmissable fight!

In MX 125 class, Malcolm Gift Ssebuguzi crushed it in Round 1, but with Dan Mitima and Jason Burrows gearing up for battle, the throne isn’t safe. Meanwhile, Keith Deedan and Kateete Shamirah are throwing down the gauntlet as they try to crash the top three party. Hold on to your helmets, this one’s going to be wild!

MX 2 class, Sharifah Kateete, the fearless warrior set to represent Africa in Australia, is taking on the boys and she’s not backing down! Ssendaula Jovan and Habib Kiggundu are standing in her way, but she’s got the throttle wide open. And also watch out for Julius Mubiru, who’s gunning to overtake her in this high-stakes battle!

Expect charged performances from heavy hitters like Maxim Van Pee, JB Achal, and more! This isn’t just a race, it’s an all out war on two wheels! With speed, skill, and a whole lot of grit, these riders are ready to put on a show that’ll leave fans breathless.

Dont dare miss!!

Jackson Jay Serwanga

AGS

The Mountain Dew Uganda National Motocross Championship roared into action with a thrilling first round over the weekend of February 1–2, 2025. The event, organized by Southern Motor Club, was held at the E-Villa MX Track in Kalisizo, Kyotera, attracting over 65 riders from different categories.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our incredible sponsors Mountain Dew and Shell Advance for their steadfast support of motocross and our club members year after year. Your dedication has been instrumental in the growth and success of the sport! A special thank you also goes to Lato Milk, Worldwide Movers, Encounter Africa Safaris, Nabisere Hotel, Semka Racing Academy, Vigar Bar Kyebando, Gudluck Promotions, Fire and Safety Appliances, and St. Francis Junior School. Your generous contributions played a crucial role in making this event a resounding success.

Your continued support fuels the passion and progress of motocross in Uganda, and we look forward to even greater achievements together!

With a blend of young talent, seasoned riders, and enthusiastic fans, the event proved to be a resounding success. The competitive spirit was high as riders battled for top honors, setting the tone for an exciting motocross season ahead.

The youngest competitors displayed great promise in the MX50 Junior class. Harvey Kiggundu was in a class of his own, winning all three heats and securing the maximum 60 points. He was followed by Sentamu Favour and Roneta Ssebuguzi, who both tied at 47 points, while Grace Deedan put in a commendable performance to finish fourth with 41 points.

Arinda Grace Deedan pushing her Bike

In the MX50 Senior class, Katende and Birungi in a Fierce Duel. Abigail Katende and Hellena Birungi were the standout performers. Katende managed to clinch victory by winning two heats, collecting 57 points, while Birungi followed closely with 52 points. Abigail Muwanguzi claimed third place with 43 points. Notably, Israel Mpuga was the highest-ranked male competitor in a class that was largely dominated by female riders.

in hhe MX65 category, Sekamwa holds Off the Musedde Brothers in an intense contest, emerging as the winner with 57 points. He was trailed closely by the Musedde brothers, Ethan (54 points) and Jude Kyle (43 points), both of whom showcased exceptional skills. The women’s competition was equally competitive, with Jamaira Makumbi putting on an outstanding performance, winning all her heats and securing a perfect 60 points. Faith Deedan followed with 51 points, while Akao Norah came third with 45 points.

The MX85 class was dominated by the Katende brothers, with Miguel Katende taking the top spot with 60 points, followed by Jonathan Katende with 51 points. Ethan Katek secured third place with 41 points, wrapping up a podium in this category.

The MX125 class was headlined by Gift Ssebuguzi, who dominated the competition by winning all the heats and earning 60 points. Dan Mitima followed in second place with 51 points, while Jason Burrows completed the podium with 45 points. In the women’s category, Shamirah Kateete displayed impressive riding skills, collecting maximum points.

Klye Musedde getting ready to race

The MX2 class was fiercely contested, with Jovan Ssendawula emerging victorious after collecting 60 points. Habib Kiggundu finished second with 47 points, while Sharifah Kateete came in third with 45 points. In the women’s category, Swanswi Sambo took second place with 51 points, followed by Asia Kasirye with 45 points.

The premier MX1 category showcased high-level motocross action, with Ashim Serwadda securing first place with 60 points. Isma Mukiibi followed in second place with 49 points, while Maxim Van Pee finished third with 47 points.

In the Veterans’ Class, experienced riders put on an impressive display, with Rogers Ssebunya taking the win. JB Achal finished second with 51 points, while Nakiwala Arithea rounded off the podium with 45 points.

A significant highlight of this year’s event was Southern Motor Club’s efforts to introduce a regional championship, a move that aligns with the 2023 Sports Act. The initiative aims to expand the sport beyond central Uganda, giving riders from different regions more opportunities to compete at a national level.

Speaking about this development, a Arthur Blick Junior Deputy Vice President , Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) stated: “The success of this event is proof that regional championships can attract high participation and improve the quality of motocross in Uganda. We are committed to rolling out this initiative in more regions to ensure the sport continues to grow.”

With FMU’s vision to expand motocross to other regions, riders from across Uganda can look forward to more competitive racing opportunities, further strengthening the sport’s presence nationwide.

The Mountain Dew Uganda National Motocross Championship Round 1 has set the stage for an exciting season. With top riders already showing great form and the promise of regional expansion, the future of Ugandan motocross looks brighter than ever.

Fans and participants are now eagerly anticipating Round 2, which is expected to bring even more intense battles and thrilling performances. With new riders stepping up and seasoned competitors looking to defend their titles, the race for the 2025 national championship is well and truly underway.

Jackson Jay Serwanga

AGS

In January 2025, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) announced an eight-year homologation extension for selected rally cars. This move ensures that certain older but competitive rally cars can continue participating in FIA  sanctioned events. However, a major exclusion from this list has sparked concern within the Ugandan rally community, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX and Subaru N12B.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX and Subaru N12 have for  long been  dominant rally cars in Uganda and across Africa, favored for their durability, affordability, and performance on rugged African roads. However, with them missing from the extended homologation list, Ugandan drivers relying on these model may be ineligible to score points in the 2025 ARC.

On the other hand, the Subaru N14 and newer models, as well as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, remain homologated, allowing their users to continue competing at the ARC level.

On February 4, 2025, FIA introduced a National/Regional Car registration form, offering a lifeline to affected drivers. This opportunity offers a potential avenue for competitors with vehicles like the Evo IX to participate in national and regional championships. To utilize this opportunity, competitors must submit the registration form to the FIA at least two weeks before the closure of entries for their intended event. Upon approval, these cars will be eligible to score points in National and Regional championships.

Lwakataka Pushing his Subaru N12B. Courtesy Photo

Article 12.3 of the Regional Rally Sporting Regulations provides clarity on the inclusion of such vehicles. It states that ASN  homologated cars can participate in regional championship rallies and be listed in the classification. These vehicles are typically grouped under the “Nat” category and must comply with Appendix J, Article 253, which outlines safety equipment standards for Groups N, A, and RGT.

For Ugandan drivers with cars like the Evo IX and Subaru N12s, which adhere to the specified safety regulations, this development offers a renewed chance to compete. The FIA may require adjustments to the vehicle’s weight and/or air restrictor diameter to maintain a performance balance with FIA-homologated cars. All characteristics specified on the acceptance form must be strictly followed during events.

This initiative provides an opportunity for crews, including notable drivers like Dr. Mukasa and Kuku, to remain competitive in the upcoming season. The necessary forms are available for download on the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) website, the ARC website, and the FIA website. Competitors are encouraged to stay updated through these platforms for the latest information and guidelines.

Key Steps for Competitors

  1. Competitors must submit the National Car registration form at least two weeks before the closure of entries for their intended event.
  2. If accepted, these cars will be eligible to score points in National and Regional championships.
  3. All registered National cars must comply with FIA’s Appendix J, Article 253, which covers technical and safety regulations for Group N, A, and RGT cars. This means:
    • Vehicles must meet minimum weight requirements.
    • Air restrictors may need modifications to balance performance.
    • Safety specifications must align with FIA standards.
Kuku Pushing his Evo 9 during ARC event 2024

While this new regulation provides a temporary solution, the exclusion of the Evo IX from FIA homologation extensions remains a significant issue for many Ugandan and African rally teams. There may be efforts by ASNs and regional motorsport federations to petition FIA for reconsideration or explore alternative homologation extensions.

For now, competitors using expired homologation cars must act fast to register under the National category before the deadlines.

More updates will be shared as they become available. Stay tuned to FMU and ARC platforms for further developments.

 

 

Jackson Jay

AGS

 

Ponsiano Lwakataka, with co-driver Paul Musaazi, delivered an electrifying performance to clinch victory in the first round of the 2025 National Rally Championship, dubbed Lumala@60, Mum@90 Birthday Rally. The event, held in the Western Ugandan town of Mbarara, saw Lwakataka clock an impressive time of 1:12:59.4, asserting his dominance and reminding fellow competitors of his pedigree on the rally stage.

Lwakataka, a seasoned rally veteran, was in jubilant spirits after his win, reflecting on the significance of the victory. “I’m happy for this win, especially considering I’ve beaten some powerful cars,” he said. “Rally isn’t just about having a fast machine; it’s about being a fighting driver. Like in football, successful clubs don’t just buy balls, they recruit the best players. I am that Ronaldo or Mo Salah, ready to lift the team. Rally is about the fight, and today, I fought harder.”

Yasin Nasser and Ali katumba Pushing their R5 during the SSS

He further emphasized his readiness for the season, saying, “This year, I’m ready to fight for the championship. Competitors should be warned: Mafu Mafu is back and ready to take it all.” he went on “this victory was a crucial boost for his 2025 championship aspirations. “The event wasn’t entirely smooth,” he admitted. “We had some issues on Friday, but God was on my side, and I managed to sort them out. From that point, everything went smoothly, and this victory proves that I’m still a contender in this sport.”

Rally enthusiasts have noted that Mbarara has historically been a good indicator of future championship success, with many winners of the rally going on to claim the season’s title. Lwakataka’s win has certainly made a statement, and he is now positioned as one of the top contenders for the 2025 title.

In a highly competitive field, Ronald Sebuguzi secured second place with a total time of 1:15:34.9, while the 2010 champion, Nasser Mutebi, claimed third with a time of 1:16:26.0. Both Sebuguzi and Mutebi showed great consistency throughout the event, but they were ultimately unable to challenge Lwakataka for the top spot.

The rally began on Friday with a single stage and a super special stage. Lwakataka finished the first day in second place, but his relentless pursuit of the lead saw him take the top spot by the third stage on Saturday, after event leader Yasin Nasser suffered power steering issues that dropped him down to sixth place.

Despite his setbacks, Nasser, alongside co-driver Ali Katumba, managed to recover somewhat and finished in fourth place overall, securing maximum points from the power stage.

The 2WD category saw Kirumira Edward, co-driven by Monica Birwinyo, took top honors in their Toyota Corona, with a solid time of 1:31:38.1. Haji Amiri Kavuma finished second with a time of 1:34:07.6, while Julius ‘Mukalo’ Ssemambo rounded out the top three with a time of 1:35:54.9. Edward’s victory highlighted his pace and control in the 2WD class, securing a strong start to his 2025 campaign.

In the Clubman Rally Championship, Kibande Walter clinched the victory, with Sentongo Kiggundu and Topher Katera finishing second and third, respectively. This was a strong start to the season for Kibande, who will look to build on his success in future rounds.

While many crews secured valuable points for their season campaigns, others faced misfortune. Peter Kalule was the final casualty of the event, rolling out during the power stage and ending his rally on a disappointing note. Earlier in the event, other crews such as Moustapha Mukasa, Duncan Mubiru, and Abdul Katete were also affected by mechanical issues and misfortune, leaving them with little to show for their efforts.

As the first round of the 2025 National Rally Championship concludes, it’s clear that the competition will be fierce in the coming months. With Lwakataka’s victory setting a strong tone for the season, Sebuguzi, Mutebi, and other competitors will need to step up their game if they hope to challenge for the title. For now, Lwakataka’s win in Mbarara has firmly placed him at the top of the standings, but the battle is far from over.

 

Jackson Jay
AGS

Organized by the Mbarara Motor Club (MPU), this much-anticipated event marks the official start of the 2025 National Rally Championship calendar and promises to deliver high-octane action.

Set to take place on January 24th and 25th, the rally will cover an impressive 295.16 kilometers, of which 140.64 kilometers are competitive stages and 154.52 kilometers are liaison sections. Fans are in for a treat as crews take on seven thrilling stages, highlighted by the Lumala Stage (30.62 kilometers) and the Mama Stage (23.58 kilometers). These key segments will be run multiple times, ensuring an adrenaline-packed weekend.

Safety First
Speaking about the preparations, Clerk of Course Kisitu Mayanja highlighted the fast-paced nature of the stages and urged fans to prioritize safety.
“The stages are very fast, and we urge fans to keep off the track during the rally. The organizers are doing everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for everyone,” Mayanja stated.

Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) officials, including President Jimmy Akena and Vice President Hajji Hamid Gombe, echoed this sentiment during the launch at Mwesigwa Resort, Mbarara. They called upon fans and participants alike to observe all safety guidelines to make the event a success.

A Celebration of Speed and Legacy
The rally celebrates two milestones: Moses Lumala’s 60th birthday and Mama’s 90th birthday, combining heartfelt tributes with the thrill of motorsport. This unique blend of tradition and high-speed action has cemented the event as a fan favorite, drawing thousands of spectators.

Adding to the excitement, rally legends Duncan Mubiru and Moses Lumala are expected to showcase their skills in Ford Fiesta Proto cars, which are set to arrive in Uganda next week. Known for their aggressive and crowd-pleasing styles, the duo promises to deliver unforgettable performances.

International Participation
The rally has also attracted international interest, with two Rwandan teams already confirmed. Their participation adds a competitive edge and enhances the event’s reputation as a premier motorsport spectacle in the region.

The Rally Itinerary
The two-day event kicks off on Friday, January 24th, with the first run of the Mama Stage (Bihare – Sanga), followed by a Super Special Stage at Rukaari Mwesigwa Resort.
On Saturday morning, drivers will tackle the Mama Stage for the second time before heading to the Lumala Stage. Both stages will be repeated, with the Mama Stage completed thrice for a total of seven stages.

Support from the Community
FMU President Jimmy Akena emphasized the importance of community support, urging locals to ensure the event’s success.
“We are planning to have the African Rally Championship (ARC) round, the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally, in this region. I call upon everyone to make this event successful so that the ARC round can be held here,” Akena stated.

Title Sponsorship and Perks
The title sponsor has gone above and beyond, providing trophies for the winners, accommodation for the crews, and 100 liters of fuel per team, among other benefits. This generous support underscores the event’s significance as a cornerstone of Uganda’s motorsport calendar.

A Thrilling Start to the Season
As the Lumala @60 Mum @90 Mbarara Rally approaches, anticipation continues to build. With its combination of fast-paced stages, legendary drivers, international participation, and a community-focused celebration, the season opener promises to set the tone for a spectacular 2025 motorsport year.

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