KCB Bank Invests 80M in Pearl Africa Rally, 2026 Edition Launched
By Kyeyune Ali
KCB Bank Uganda has officially launched the 2026 Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally at Mestil Hotel in Kampala, setting the stage for one of the region’s most anticipated motorsport events.
KCB Bank Uganda has invested 80M shillings into the event that will be hosted in Western Uganda.
The rally, a key fixture on the FIA Africa Rally Championship (ARC) calendar, will take place from May 7 to 9, 2026, across the districts of Mbarara and Kiruhura in western Uganda.
This year’s edition is expected to attract stiff competition, with several top teams from across Africa already confirming participation. Defending champions from Kenya, crewed by Karan Patel and Tauseef Khan, are among the early entrants, promising another thrilling contest on Ugandan soil.
The event is being organized through a collaborative effort involving several partners, including Shell V-Power, which will supply fuel to the competing drivers and this was confirmed today (Wednesday) at Mestil Hotel in Kampala.
Clerk of the Course Kisitu Mayanja outlined the rally program, noting that May 7 will be dedicated to free practice and the qualifying stage to determine the starting order. Competitive action will intensify on May 8 with two long stages and a fan-friendly super special stage, before concluding on May 9 with eight demanding stages.
Among the highlights of the route is the Kaguta stage, the longest at 23.46 kilometers, while the Robert Rukaari stage, measuring 6.19 kilometers, will serve as the shortest and also the decisive power stage.
Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) General Secretary Reynolds Kibira explained the decision to retain Mbarara and Kiruhura as host venues, citing positive feedback from FIA officials. He noted that the region’s high safety standards and strong organization have boosted international confidence in Uganda’s ability to host top-level motorsport events.
The 2026 rally will also count toward both the FIA Africa Rally Championship (ARC) and the National Rally Championship (NRC), further elevating its significance.
Ugandan driver Ronald Ssebuguzi has expressed determination to challenge for top honors this year after falling short in the previous edition. He revealed that he has intensified preparations to close the gap on the Kenyan competitors and called on Ugandans to turn up in large numbers to support local drivers.
The Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally continues to grow in stature, and this year’s edition promises high-speed action, intense competition, and a celebration of motorsport excellence in the region.