Mbarara – Kenya’s rally aces Karan Patel and Tauseef Khan have written history once again, roaring to their third consecutive African Rally Championship (ARC) title (2023, 2024, and 2025) with a commanding performance in the Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally held in Mbarara.
Piloting their Skoda Fabia, the dynamic duo showcased unmatched precision, speed, and determination to seal their place as continental champions.
Their dominance was clear in Stage SS06 – Kaguta 2 (23.28 KM) where they clocked an impressive 15:32.4, edging out Uganda’s Yasin Nasser and Ali Katumba, who finished second in 15:34.0. Local hero Duncan “Kikankane” Mubiru, powered by Shell V-Power, claimed third in 15:41.0, a result that also secured him 1st place in the National Rally Championship.
Meanwhile, in the ARC3 category, Team KCB’s Nikhil Sachania and Deep Patel conquered the competition in their Ford Fiesta Rally3, emerging champions. Their victory in ARC3 was backed by a solid performance across stages, also earning them a commendable 3rd overall in the main ARC category—a true testament to their consistency and grit.
High Praise from Rally Stakeholders
The Federation of Motorsport Clubs Uganda (FMU) President Jimmy Akeng Obote and Vice President Hajji Hamidy Gombe praised the competitors and thanked sponsors including KCB Bank and Shell for their unwavering support. “This year’s rally has been one of the most competitive and thrilling editions yet,” said Obote.
Sheila Awori, Head of Marketing at KCB Bank Uganda, congratulated all drivers and fans: “Motorsport is a powerful way to bring communities together. As KCB, we are proud to support a sport that unites, inspires, and pushes boundaries.”
Hellen Bwengye, Marketing Manager at Vivo Energy Uganda, the lead sponsor, delivered a heartfelt tribute at the prize-giving ceremony held at Lake View Hotel Mbarara: “To our fearless drivers, pit crews, fans, and organisers—thank you for your energy and passion. This rally is not just a race; it’s a celebration of unity, talent, and purpose.”
She reaffirmed Vivo Energy’s 14-year partnership with FMU and commitment to fueling motorsport excellence across Uganda and Africa.
Rally Impact and Government Support
Hon. Mwesigwa Robert Rukari, Chief Guest and owner of Rukaari Resort, lauded the event’s contribution to the local economy, boosting hospitality and small businesses, and affirmed government support for motorsport as a key pillar in youth talent development and tourism.
Corporate Spotlight
Equity Bank Uganda, proud sponsors of the Drugs Express Rally Team, were among the key financial institutions backing the rally. “Let’s rally together,” their message read, highlighting growing corporate support for the sport.
As the engines cool and the dust settles in Mbarara, the 2025 Pearl of Africa Rally will be remembered as a spectacle of speed, strategy, and spirit, with champions crowned, history made, and Uganda reaffirmed as a premier rally destination on the African continent.
