KCB Bank and FMU Announce Strategic Partnership for Uganda Rally Championship
By Mwambazi Lawrence
The thunder of rally engines, the sharp scent of burnt rubber, and the growing anticipation of high-speed action had already gripped Uganda’s motorsport fraternity long before the official confirmation arrived. For weeks, speculation had been building among fans, crews, and officials about who would step up to back the 2026 season. That wait finally came to an end in emphatic fashion when KCB Bank Uganda unveiled a massive UGX 560 million sponsorship, securing naming rights for the entire Uganda National Rally Championship calendar and setting the tone for what promises to be a blockbuster season.
That long wait finally came to an end in emphatic fashion when KCB Bank Uganda stormed onto the scene with a massive UGX 560 million sponsorship, securing naming rights for the entire Uganda National Rally Championship calendar. Instantly, engines sounded sweeter, drivers stood taller, and even cars that had refused to start the previous day suddenly developed confidence. It set the tone for what promises to be a blockbuster season one where even the dust might soon demand appearance fees.
The announcement was made at the bank’s headquarters along Lugogo Bypass, at an event that attracted a cross-section of stakeholders journalists with pens ready, drivers with sunglasses indoors pretending to study “strategy,” and team managers mentally calculating how far UGX 560 million can stretch before their drivers discover new and creative ways to spend it. The atmosphere was electric, thick with excitement and optimism, like a service park five minutes before the start everyone busy, everyone serious, but nobody fully sure what is about to happen. Managing Director Edgar Byamah officially handed over a cheque to Jimmy Akena, president of the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda. The symbolic gesture wasn’t just about money it was a signal that Ugandan rallying had been refueled, re-energized, and possibly overconfident.
With the sponsorship now sealed, attention quickly shifts to the season opener scheduled for March 27–28 in Mbale. Organized by the Motorcycle and Rally Club Mbale, the event marks a long-awaited return after eight years. Mbale is expected to transform from a calm town into a rally war zone where dust replaces oxygen, directions become arguments, and every corner looks friendly until it suddenly introduces you to a ditch. Even the locals are preparing, some already placing bets not on who will win, but on which corner will claim the most bumpers.
A total of 34 crews have confirmed participation, and as usual, all 34 believe they are fully prepared until the first stage reminds them that rallying is a sport of surprises. The entry list is stacked with big names. Crowd favorite Duncan Mubiru, also known as “Kikankane,” is expected to thrill fans with his sideways driving style that often looks like the car is negotiating its own contract with the road. Reigning African champion Yasin Nasser returns with speed, confidence, and hopefully a gentle reminder from his crew that the road actually has boundaries. Rwanda’s Queen Kalimpinya brings elegance and pace to the competition, while multiple-time champion Ronald Ssebuguzi arrives with experience so vast that even the roads probably recognize him.
Beyond the established names, the rally is also expected to provide a platform for emerging talents to prove their abilities and challenge the status quo. With improved backing and heightened competition, the 2026 season could see new rivalries emerge and fresh faces rise through the ranks, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans.
About The Author
