Fresh sponsorship for the Pearl of Africa Rally Championship has been hailed as a timely boost to Uganda’s motorsport sector, with stakeholders calling for stronger partnerships to drive growth and unlock talent.
At the official launch held in Kampala, Patrick Ogwel, general secretary of the National Council of Sports, said increased private sector involvement is key to elevating the sport to competitive international standards.
“The commitment to sponsoring the Pearl of Africa Rally elevates this event to new heights. It brings communities together, and sports can only truly thrive with partnership and collaboration,” Ogwel said.
He noted that sustained investment will enable Ugandan drivers to transition from local competition to global stages, adding that collaboration with the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda remains critical in maintaining the sport’s growth trajectory.
KCB Bank Uganda announced an Shs80 million sponsorship package for the rally, scheduled to run from May 7 to 9 in Mbarara. The event is expected to attract top regional competitors, motorsport enthusiasts, and international attention.
The launch drew a cross-section of stakeholders, including rally drivers, FMU officials, and fans. Attention also centred on three standout Ugandan drivers; Mutebi Nasser, Mike Mukula Jr, and Oscar Ntambi — who recently secured victory in the ARC2 category on their debut in the World Rally Championship.
FMU patron Mike Mukula praised the drivers’ performance and urged government to formally prioritise motorsport within the national sports agenda.
He also called on organisers to integrate broader themes such as environmental sustainability and community health into rally events, while encouraging local leaders to actively participate in flag-off activities to enhance regional visibility and economic impact.
Speaking on behalf of the bank, Noela Byuma, head of marketing and communications, said the sponsorship reflects a long-term commitment to developing motorsport talent and professionalising the discipline.
She noted that the bank’s partnership with FMU including its title sponsorship of the National Rally Championship is already yielding results by supporting emerging drivers and strengthening grassroots engagement.
Byuma also urged fans to turn up in large numbers for the Mbarara event, noting that tickets have been made accessible through digital platforms to encourage wider participation.
Driver Mutebi welcomed the sponsorship, describing it as both motivation and responsibility for competitors to raise their performance.
“We have prepared well and are focused on competing at the highest level. Our target is to reach the top of the National Rally Championship podium,” he said.
Beyond competition, organisers emphasised the need to balance sporting excitement with environmental protection. The bank reaffirmed its commitment to eco-friendly initiatives aimed at preserving the host region’s landscape.
The latest investment adds to growing corporate interest in Uganda’s sports sector, with motorsport increasingly viewed as a platform for talent development, tourism promotion, and economic activity.
