FMU conducts route survey in Mbarara ahead of Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally

The Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU), the local motorsport governing body, conducted its first survey visit to Mbarara over the weekend (Sunday, February 16) in preparation for the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally, scheduled for May 9–11, 2024.

The team, led by FMU Vice President Hajji Hamidu Gombe and experienced Clerk of Course (COC) Kisitu Mayanja, inspected Mwesigwa Resort Arena, which is expected to host the special sprint stage (SSS), as well as other roads earmarked for the competition.

While Mayanja did not disclose specific details from the initial survey, FMU General Secretary Reynold Kibira explained the purpose of such visits ahead of major events.

“Route surveys are aimed at identifying and naming the safest route that delivers the best returns for fans, sponsors, and drivers. This means ensuring easy and safe viewing for fans, safety for drivers, and visibility for sponsors,” Kibira said.

He added, “These surveys are essential. They assess access roads for fans, evacuation routes, manageable routes, and ensure fans do not venture into restricted areas.”

According to Africa Rally Championship (ARC) guidelines, route surveys involve a dedicated team driving through planned rally stages before the event. This process meticulously maps out the terrain, identifies potential hazards, and evaluates road conditions. Such surveys are crucial for competitors to strategize and navigate safely, especially on Africa’s often challenging and unpredictable roads, which can be affected by varying weather conditions.

Among the countries hosting ARC events, Uganda, South Africa, and Kenya are recognized as destinations where route surveys are particularly critical.

In Uganda, the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally requires surveys to navigate its challenging mountainous terrain.

    The South African Safari Rally is known for its diverse terrain, including bushveld, savannah plains, and river crossings.

    The Kenya Rally is renowned for its fast, dusty tracks and unpredictable weather conditions.

Robert Mwesigwa Rukaari, one of the event sponsors and hosts, highlighted the economic and tourism benefits of the rally for Mbarara and Uganda at large.

“The Mbarara Rally brought financial benefits to our people. With this event attracting competitors and fans from across Africa, it presents an even greater opportunity for economic gains and a significant boost to the tourism sector through sports tourism,” Mwesigwa said.

This will be the first time Mbarara hosts the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally, following its successful hosting of the Mbarara Rally in January.

FMU has already secured support from Robert Mwesigwa Rukaari and Michael Nuwagira Kaguta, popularly known as Toyota and brother to President Museveni. Kaguta has pledged to seek government support to secure a helicopter, a top requirement for the event.

“We will request the government to provide financial assistance or a helicopter directly. This is a critical need for the event, and it is too costly for individuals to handle,” Kaguta said.

A helicopter plays a vital role in rally events, flying ahead of the rally cars to provide crucial information about potential hazards such as animals, road obstacles, or other vehicles. This allows teams to navigate safely and make informed driving decisions, especially in remote and challenging terrain. Essentially, the helicopter acts as a “route opener” for the race.