Rising star Ssegaabwe targets dramatic upset in final NRC battle

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As the United Motorsports Club Kabalega Rally, the final and decisive round of the National Rally Championship, prepares to take place this coming weekend in Kikuube and Hoima districts, rally driver Musa Ssegaabwe has emerged as a force to be reckoned with.

His strong performances throughout the season have put established rally stars on high alert as the title race reaches its climax.

Competing in his first season in the top-tier NRC, Ssegaabwe is currently 53 points behind championship leader Ronald Ssebuguzi, who has accumulated 294 points. For Ssegaabwe to lift the title, he must win the Kabalega Rally, secure a third-place finish in the power stage and hope that Ssebuguzi suffers a retirement.

Ssegaabwe's aggressive driving approach and impressive speed have made him one of the most talked-about drivers of the campaign. Although many have speculated that he trained abroad, he attributes his rise to consistent practice and teamwork.

"I have not had the opportunity to attend a rally driving school outside Uganda, contrary to popular speculation. Instead, I have dedicated myself to learning the intricacies of the car, investing considerable time in practice and honing my skills with my co-driver. Our diligence has yielded excellent results, and we have developed a strong partnership."

A naturally inquisitive competitor, Ssegaabwe began learning about the rallying environment in 2019, working as a navigator for Peter Kalule during the season-opening event in Mbarara.

After stepping away briefly, he returned during the 2022 FMU championship sprint in Busiika on Boxing Day, reaffirming his determination to advance in the sport.

In 2023, he acquired a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 9, a four-wheel-drive rally car, and went on to win the amateur Clubman Rally Championship, a key pathway into the elite NRC category.

Ssegaabwe’s passion for motorsport began in childhood in Luwero and grew steadily as he transitioned from a spectator to a competitive driver.

"I have always been fascinated by speed, and as I grew older, I continued to follow the sport, eventually becoming a spectator and even participating in street racing. However, in November 2023, I decided to take the leap and purchase a rally car, marking the beginning of my professional rallying career," he said.

Ahead of the Hoima rally, Ssegaabwe has taken a measured outlook on his title chances.

"The competition is fierce, and I am simply hoping for a win in Hoima. The outcome of the NRC title is beyond my control, but I am grateful for my performance thus far. If I don't secure the title this season, I will continue to work hard and strive for excellence."

Speculation has grown that Ssegaabwe has imported a Skoda Fabia R5, a state-of-the-art rally car expected to elevate his competitiveness. He chose not to dwell on the rumour.

"My priority is the Hoima rally, but I do have aspirations to upgrade to a more competitive car. I am excited about the prospect of taking my skills to the next level and competing with the best in the championship."