The 2025 Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally is officially launched at Mestil, marking a significant milestone in the country’s motorsport calendar with a boost of 80 million sponsorship from KCB Bank.
This year’s event will serve as the second round of the African Rally Championship (ARC) and the third round of the National Rally Championship (NRC).
Scheduled to take place in Mbarara City from May 8th to 10th, 2025, the rally will cover 11 sections, spanning a total distance of 486.26 km, with 188.10 km of competitive stages and 298.16 km of liaison sections.
Notably, this will be the first time the ARC round is organized outside central Uganda.
During the launch, KCB Bank announced its sponsorship package for the event, injecting 80 million Uganda shillings.
Sheila Awori, KCB Bank’s Acting Head of Marketing, expressed the bank’s commitment to the sport and the communities they serve, stating, “We are very privileged to be part of this prestigious event. Our support goes beyond the sponsorship.”
Hon. James Akena, President of the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU), welcomed the sponsorship, pledging to provide value for money, proper accountability, and visibility.
“This new edition is an invitation to the auspicious part of Uganda. Mbarara is popular for its milk. There will be everything to enjoy there, including rally. Overall, safety is our priority for everyone.”
The FMU aims to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and wildlife, with Mbarara offering a unique experience.
Kisitu Mayanja, the Clerk of Course, emphasized the importance of reflecting the country’s beauty, stating, “We have managed to achieve it with this change. Mbarara has a rich cultural heritage but also wildlife. These are the things we want our fans to enjoy because they reflect our country.”
The event is supported by various partners, including Shell V-Power, Coca-Cola, Lakeview Resort Hotel, Isuzu Uganda, Fire and Safety Appliances, ROMA Motors (U) Ltd, Nagrc (DB) Farm, Government of Uganda thru (NCS), Uganda Police, UPDF, Hon. Mwesigwa Resort, and others.
