The 2025 Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally (POAUR) has been officially launched, serving as the second round of the African Rally Championship and the third round of the National Rally Championship.
This year’s event will occur in Mbarara, Western Uganda, instead of the Central Region. Clerk of Course Kisitu Mayanja said the move aims to showcase Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and wildlife. The Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally evolved from the Great Lakes Rally, which was jointly organized by Uganda and Club Automobile du Burundi in 1997. When Winston Churchill visited Uganda, he baptized the country as the ‘Pearl of Africa’, from which this event derives its name.
From all perspectives, the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally has always been one of the most attractive rounds on the African Rally Championship calendar.
Announcing KCB’s sponsorship package worth Ugx.80 million for this year’s event, Sheila Awori, KCB’s Head of Marketing, expressed pride in sponsoring the event, highlighting the bank’s commitment to both the sport and the communities.
James Akena, President of the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU), assured sponsors of transparency, accountability, and value for money following productive discussions.
“This new edition is an invitation to the auspicious part of Uganda. Mbarara is popular for its milk. There will be everything to enjoy there, including a rally. Overall, safety is our priority for everyone.”-Akena
The five (5) stages for the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally have been named after the people and culture associated with motorsport and the Ankole region.
Charles Muhangi stage: Distance: 18.11km, 85% closed, is named after and in memory of the only Ugandan to win the African rally championship. Muhangi won the African Rally Championship in 1999. His family will be present as we honour the fallen hero.
Kaguta stage: Distance: 23.28km, 100% closed, is named in honour and recognition of the support to motorsport by the sons of Kaguta (Gen. Saleh, Sodo Aine, Michael Nuwagira aka Toyota).
Ankole Cow stage: Distance: 19.28km and 100% closed
Named after the famous Ankole cattle that give Mbarara the name of ‘LAND OF MILK’.
Moses Lumala stage: Distance 20,29km and 30% closed, which is named after a famous national champion, Moses Lumala. Lumala is an inspiration to drivers and the motorsport fraternity.
Rukaari stage: Distance 6.50km 100% closed, named after Hon. Mwesigwa Robert Rukaari, a Member of Parliament for Mbarara City North. Hon.Rukaari has dedicated over 15 acres of land to build a motorsport facility in Mbarara. The same venue will host the first stage of competition, the double circuit, and the Shell V-Power stage (last stage of the event)
All these stages have been carefully designed for the enjoyment of our fans. But more importantly, they have been designed with safety in mind.
The Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally has for long been measured by the number of entries received. Organisers will allow a maximum number of forty-five (45) entries. Besides the local competitors, the event has attracted interest from several leading crews from Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania.
The Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally round will count towards the FIA African Rally Championship and four (4) other category championships,s including the ARC Junior Drivers. Local crews will also vie for the National rally championship, (2WD), Clubma,n and the three division titles.
