Pearl of Africa Rally hits record 65 entries

The Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally has reached a historic milestone this year, recording the largest number of entries since its inception in 1996, when it was still known as the Great Lakes Rally.

Following the close of registration last week, an impressive total of 65 crews confirmed their participation, underscoring the event's growing stature on both the continental and national motorsport calendars.

This year's edition carries particular weight, as it doubles as the second round of the FIA African Rally Championship (ARC) and the second round of the National Rally Championship (NRC) Uganda.

The rally is scheduled to take place from May 7 to 10, traversing the districts of Kiruhura and Mbarara – regions well known for their demanding terrain and rally-friendly routes.

Out of the 65 crews entered, 23 will be competing for valuable continental points in the ARC categories (ARC1 and ARC2), while the remaining participants will battle for honours in the highly competitive national classes.

The entry list reflects a healthy blend of local dominance and international participation. Approximately 45 Ugandan crews will be joined by 10 crews from Kenya, four from Tanzania, four from Rwanda, and one crew each from India and Ethiopia,  all seeking to secure maximum championship points and regional bragging rights.

Flying the Ugandan flag at the highest level is the defending ARC champion, Yasin Nasser, navigated by Ali Katumba. Representing the Moil Rally Team, the duo will compete in a Ford Fiesta R5, aiming to capitalize on home advantage as they pursue crucial points in their bid to defend the 2025 ARC title.

From Kenya, the charge will be led by two-time ARC champion Karan Patel (2023 and 2024), who will pilot a Škoda Fabia Rally2.

Meanwhile, Tanzania's hopes rest on reigning national champion Ahmed Huwel, who is set to make his debut in a newly acquired Toyota GR Yaris Rally2. Rwanda will be represented by Christian Kanangire, returning to competition in a Subaru Impreza N12 and looking to build on his recent strong showing at the Safari Rally.

In terms of distance, the rally will cover a total of 569.16 kilometres, of which 201.85 kilometres will consist of competitive stages, while the remaining 367.31 kilometres will be liaison sections. This demanding itinerary is expected to test not only the speed and precision of the drivers but also the endurance and reliability of their machines.