65 Crews Confirm As Regional Titans Invade The Pearl of Africa Rally
By Mwambazi Lawrence
The stage is set for what is shaping up to be the most historic edition of the Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally, with a record-breaking entry list signaling a new era for Ugandan motorsport. By the close of entries, a staggering 65 crews had confirmed participation, making it the biggest entry since the rally’s inception. Of these, 20 crews will battle for continental honors in the African Rally Championship category, while the rest will fight it out in the highly competitive national class.
Scheduled to run from May 7th to 10th across Mbarara and Kiruhura Districts, this year’s event has attracted a formidable lineup of regional talent. From Kenya, notable entries include Karan Patel, Samman Vohra, and former national champion Jasmeet Chana, all eager to challenge for top honors on Ugandan soil.
Tanzania will also be strongly represented, headlined by reigning national champion Ahmed Huwel, who is set to debut his recently acquired Toyota GR Yaris Rally2. The Birdi brothers, Randeep Singh Birdi and Manvir Birdi, have also entered, competing in the national category with a Ford Fiesta Proto and a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX respectively.
From Rwanda, Christian Kanangire returns to action in a Subaru Impreza N12, aiming to carry forward his impressive form from the Safari Rally. He will be joined by fellow Rwandan competitor Queen Kalimpinya, adding further depth to the regional contest.
On the home front, Uganda’s charge in the ARC category will be led by reigning African champion Yasin Nasser, navigated by long-time co-driver Ali Katumba. The crew will once again field their trusted Ford Fiesta R5 as they aim to defend both national pride and their continental crown. They will be joined by a strong Ugandan contingent including Mike Mukula Jr, Aine Sodo Kaguta, young star Kevin Bebeto, Stefano Valeri, and Godfrey Nsereko, who is set to debut his Toyota Etios in the ARC class.
Meanwhile, the national category promises fireworks of its own, with Uganda’s finest rally stars all confirmed. Fan favorites such as Duncan Mubiru, Hassan Alwi Jr, Ronald Ssebuguzi, Ponsiano Lwakataka, Moses Lumala, and returning driver Jonas Kansime are all set to light up the stages, ensuring intense competition across the board.
The rally will cover a total distance of 569.16 kilometers, with 201.85 kilometers designated as competitive stages and 367.31 kilometers as liaison sections. With its record entry, diverse international presence, and a blend of seasoned champions and rising stars, the 2026 edition of the Pearl of Africa Rally is not just another round of the championship it is a defining moment for rallying in the region.
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