David GOMBE
As the dust from Mbarara’s stages settles, Uganda’s rally spotlight shifts to the highly anticipated Bugerere Stabex EMC Rally, where KCB Bank Uganda’s three-man squad, Ntambi Oscar, Mike Mukula Jr, and Nasser Mutebi is gearing up for a high-stakes battle across the sugarcane belt of Jinja and Kayunga.
The rally, set for July 10th to 12th 2025, is the fourth round of the National Rally Championship (NRC) and promises one of the most exciting layouts in recent years.
With ten special stages covering 154 competitive kilometers, the route combines tight forest tracks, fast straights, and a long-awaited night stage, which will be the first in the NRC since 2016. Drivers will be tested for navigation under pressure, endurance, and adaptability.
Gritty contender Ntambi Oscar from the Forest Rally Team, a two-time 2WD winner at the 2022 and 2023 Pearl of Africa Rally, returns with a Subaru Impreza N10, navigated by Pius Lugya. Now entering Bugerere with a confident stride and a measured tone, Ntambi is keen to build on his momentum. “We’ve done ample preparations,” he said. “We stand a fighting chance at a decent finish and we will give it our best shot.”
Also representing KCB Bank is the fearless trailblazer on wheels Mike Mukula Jr of the Mukula Rally Team, who will be aiming for redemption after his journey ended prematurely due to engine failure in the Mbarara Pearl of Africa Rally. Behind the wheel of his Subaru Impreza alongside co-driver Edward Kiyingi, Mukula is eyeing a solid comeback. “This rally is long and tough, but that’s what makes it exciting,” he said. “We’ve reinforced the car and adjusted the setup. Now it’s about staying focused and finishing strong.”
Then comes Nasser Mutebi of the Nash Rally Team, one of Uganda’s most experienced and decorated drivers, roaring in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 9. The legend, known for his tactical approach and showmanship, is expected to deliver both speed and spectacle. Mutebi, a former NRC champion, says he’s approaching Bugerere with strategy and resolve. “It’s a big moment for us, and I’m grateful to KCB Bank for the support,” he said.
“We are ready to serve the best.”
This year’s rally is organized by the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda and is supported by several partners, including KCB Bank Uganda, which earlier invested UGX 80 million in the Pearl Rally and extended tailored support to Ntambi, Mukula Jr, and Mutebi as part of its commitment to elevating motorsport talent in the country.
While speaking about the bank’s involvement in the rally, Sheila Awori, Ag. Head of Marketing and Communications at KCB Bank Uganda said, “We are proud to be at the forefront of supporting motorsport in Uganda. Our sponsorship of these talented drivers amplifies homegrown skill and aids connection with communities in powerful ways. Through initiatives like this rally, we’re championing both performance and purpose.”
Beyond the competitive edge, the Bugerere Stabex EMC Rally will also champion community causes, with planned blood donation drives, tree planting, and the construction of new classrooms at Great Harvest Primary School in Kayunga, ensuring that the event imprints a meaningful legacy far beyond the finish line.
