BY MWAMBAZI LAWRENCE-

Fresh from her impressive showing at the WRC Safari Rally Kenya, Rwanda’s reigning national champion, Queen Kalimpinya, is now gearing up for the opening round of the KCB Uganda National Rally Championship, scheduled for 27th to 29th March 2026 in Mbale.

Kalimpinya, who has firmly established herself as one of East Africa’s most promising rally talents, will compete in her Subaru Impreza GVB, alongside her ever-trusted co-driver, Olivier Ngabo. The crew has been known for their smooth coordination and precise pace notes, a partnership that has already delivered strong results across the region.

Participation in the Uganda National Rally is part of Kalimpinya’s strategic plan to gain vital seat time and refine her performance ahead of her 2026 African Rally Championship (ARC) campaign. Having just completed one of the toughest rallies on the global calendar, she brings invaluable experience to the Mbale stages, where unpredictable terrain and local knowledge often determine the winners.

“The aim is to stay sharp and test the car in competitive conditions. Mbale provides a perfect opportunity to prepare for the ARC,” Kalimpinya said. “Every kilometer counts, and we want to use this rally to ensure our car and crew are ready for the challenges ahead.”

The opening round in Mbale is expected to attract a strong lineup of local and regional talent, making it a fiercely competitive start to the season. Fans can expect fast-paced action, with drivers pushing their cars to the limits on the varied gravel and tarmac sections that the Mbale stages are known for. With Kalimpinya joining the mix, the rally gains added excitement, as spectators watch to see if the Rwandan champion can convert her Safari Rally experience into success on Ugandan soil.

For motorsport enthusiasts, the KCB Uganda National Rally Championship is more than just a competition—it is a platform where young talents can test themselves against seasoned drivers, gain exposure, and build momentum for continental events like the ARC. Kalimpinya’s participation highlights the growing cross-border competitiveness in East African rallying, bringing together champions and emerging stars from neighboring countries.

As the countdown to 27th March continues, attention is squarely on Mbale, where drivers, teams, and fans alike will converge for what promises to be a thrilling opener. For Kalimpinya and Ngabo, it is an opportunity to showcase skill, strategy, and endurance while setting the tone for what could be a landmark year in their rallying careers.

With rally fans eagerly anticipating each stage, the Mbale event is poised to deliver drama, speed, and unforgettable moments, further cementing the KCB Uganda National Rally Championship as one of East Africa’s premier motorsport competitions.