Rashid Makumbi’s Rally Career on the Rise
By Mwambazi Lawrence
Amidst the vibrant hustle of Kisseka Market, where the hum of commerce intertwines with the roar of engines, Rashid Makumbi known affectionately as Shidi Autoparts stands out as a dynamic figure embodying the essence of ambition, resilience, and family pride.
Rashid Makumbi and codriver Asuman Mohammed Receive their 9th overall trophy in the recently concluded UMC fortportal City.
From a young age, Makumbi’s life was shaped by the roaring engines and thrilling races that he witnessed in his village of Kiboga. His admiration for the sport was fueled by iconic figures like Moses Lumala and Karim Hirji, whose mastery of Toyota Celicas left an indelible mark on his young mind. “I knew then that rallying was my calling,” Makumbi recalls with a nostalgic smile.
Makumbi’s journey into rallying began in earnest in 2021 when he borrowed a Subaru N12 from a friend, Kayongo Hassan, for a sprint event in Busiika. The experience was transformative, sparking a deep-seated ambition to pursue rallying professionally. Soon after, he invested in a Subaru Impreza N8 from John Burrows, which he meticulously upgraded to an N12 model. This vehicle became his racing partner for two years, during which he honed his skills and built his reputation.
Shidi cruising his first rally car a subaru N12 (Photo credit Johnson Were)
In a bold move, Makumbi transitioned to a Mitsubishi Evox acquired from Kepher Walubi. Although still acclimating to the new car, he is optimistic about the future, envisioning himself as a top contender within the year.
The Mitsubishi EvoX that has brought Shidi Makumbi into the lime light.
Makumbi’s rallying career is punctuated by significant milestones. His standout performance came at the Moil EMC Kyabazinga Rally 2024, where he skillfully maneuvered his Mitsubishi Evox to a commendable 5th position overall, just behind former champion Ronald Sebuguzi. Another remarkable achievement was his recent 9th place finish at a rally in Fortportal. Despite encountering mechanical issues on Day 1, which required a ball joint replacement, Makumbi’s determination saw him rebound and secure a top-10 finish.
Reflecting on his successes, Makumbi notes, “The rallying community has given me invaluable friendships and business opportunities. Motorsport has been my escape and my fitness regimen. It’s also brought me recognition within the rally fan base.”
Janan Makumbi is one of Shidi’s Daughters racing in the 50cc category
However, the path has not been without its hurdles. Sponsorship remains a significant challenge, with rallying being a costly sport. Yet, Makumbi remains undeterred. “The financial constraints are tough, but the thrill and satisfaction of rallying make it all worthwhile,” he asserts.
In addition to my passion for rallying, I am incredibly proud of my three daughters Jamairah, Janan, and Ashram Makumbi who are making waves in the world of motocross. Jamairah, a 50cc junior champion, has transitioned seamlessly to the 65cc class, where she stands out as one of Uganda’s premier female riders. Competing head-to-head with talented boys like Filbert Muwonge in the same 65cc category, Jamairah exemplifies extraordinary skill and determination, breaking barriers and setting new standards in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Jamairah Makumbi (L) one of Shidi’s Daughters who is currently racing in the 65cc
Looking ahead, Makumbi is brimming with ambition. He envisions himself as a champion within the next year and aims to compete in the Africa Rally Championship within two years, provided his car remains homologated. His upcoming focus is the NRC6 rally in Gulu, slated for October 11-13. “I am determined to excel and make a strong showing in Division 2,” Makumbi promises.
Beyond the racetrack, Rashid Makumbi embodies a beacon of hope and dedication. His journey from the dusty roads of Kiboga to the competitive world of rallying is inspiring. As he continues to push boundaries, both on and off the track, Makumbi is not only chasing his dreams but also paving the way for future generations of Ugandan motorsport enthusiasts.
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