Mbarara prepares to host Pearl of Africa Rally
This year's event promises to showcase Uganda's vibrant rally culture while highlighting Mbarara's unique attractions to a global audience.
Omar Mayanja in action. Photo by Gerald Kikulwe
Gerald Kikulwe
Journalist @New Vision
Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally
Date; May 9-11, 2025
Venue; Mbarara City
For the first time since 1960, motorsport enthusiasts in Mbarara will welcome the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally as the western region takes centre stage in Uganda's National Rally Championship.
This year's event promises to showcase Uganda's vibrant rally culture while highlighting Mbarara's unique attractions to a global audience.
The rally's relocation to Mbarara follows logistical challenges in previous host districts.
"With rising costs in Jinja and Buikwe due to sugarcane transportation disruptions, Mbarara emerged as the ideal alternative," explained Reynolds Kibira, General Secretary of the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda.
The region offers more than just cost efficiency - its breathtaking landscapes, including Lake Mburo National Park's diverse ecosystems, provide a spectacular backdrop for competitors and spectators alike.
Mbarara's cultural richness adds another dimension to the event. Known for its vast Ankole cattle ranches and dairy production, the region also boasts a reputation for beauty and charm. These elements combine to create a uniquely Ugandan motorsport experience.
The Pearl of Africa Rally holds special significance on the continental calendar, serving as both the second round of the African Rally Championship and the third round of Uganda's National Rally Championship. Federation officials emphasise the event's importance, noting past warnings from the FIA about maintaining international standards.
This year's edition introduces competitors to Mbarara's challenging terrain, testing both vehicle performance and driver skill. The shift to western Uganda represents more than a change of venue - it's an opportunity to celebrate the country's motorsport heritage while introducing new audiences to the thrill of rally racing. With its natural beauty and enthusiastic local support, Mbarara is poised to deliver an unforgettable chapter in the Pearl of Africa Rally's storied history.