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.