Mbale Hosts Opening Round of 2026 KCB Bank National Rally Championship After Eight-Year Hiatus
The event marks a significant comeback for the region, which last hosted a national rally event in 2018. Organisers say this year’s edition not only revives Mbale’s motorsport heritage but also sets the tone for a thrilling championship season.
MBALE CITY, UGANDA | March 26, 2026 — The long-anticipated return of top-tier motorsport to Eastern Uganda is finally here, as Mbale City prepares to host the opening round of the 2026 KCB Bank National Rally Championship this Friday, March 27, at the Maluku DA Grounds.
The event marks a significant comeback for the region, which last hosted a national rally event in 2018. Organisers say this year’s edition not only revives Mbale’s motorsport heritage but also sets the tone for a thrilling championship season.
Jamilu Lubwama Mutyaba, the head of security and safety for the event, confirmed that all necessary preparations have been completed to ensure a smooth and incident-free competition.
“We are fully prepared for a colourful and exciting event. All designated routes have been cleared and approved by relevant authorities,” Mutyaba said, assuring both participants and spectators of maximum safety.
He urged residents living along the rally routes to remain vigilant and cooperate with safety marshals throughout the event.
“We appeal to the nearby communities to keep a safe distance and stay alert during the rally to avoid any unforeseen incidents,” he added.
Rally Routes and Schedule
The rally will feature a mix of competitive stretches designed to test driver skill and endurance across varied terrain. In Mbale, the action will kick off from Budaka through Naboa, extending via Kasuleta to Kakoli, before culminating in a double circuit showdown at the Maluku DA Grounds.
The excitement will continue on Saturday as the rally caravan heads to Bukedea District for another high-adrenaline round. The Bukedea route will run from Lukoyi to Kolili, passing through Kakele and Kachumbala.
Big Names, Bigger Expectations
The championship is expected to attract some of the biggest names in Ugandan, East African, and continental rallying, offering fans a rare opportunity to witness elite motorsport talent up close.
Renowned rally driver Ponsiano Lwakataka, popularly known as “Mafu Mafu,” has already pledged a competitive showing and expressed enthusiasm about the event’s return to Mbale.
Lwakataka emphasized that beyond competition, the rally serves as a platform for talent identification and development.
“These events are important for scouting and nurturing local talent. We want to see more drivers from these communities rise to the national level,” he said.
Boost for Local Motorsport and Economy
The return of the rally is also expected to provide a boost to local businesses, tourism, and community engagement in Mbale and Bukedea. Hotels, transport services, and vendors are likely to benefit from the influx of teams, officials, and fans.
As engines rev and anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Mbale this weekend for what promises to be a spectacular curtain-raiser to Uganda’s 2026 rally season.
