By Priscilla Sarah Nakimbugwe
Jinja/Kayunga, July 10th–12th, 2025
The dust has finally settled after an electrifying fourth round of the FMU National Rally Championship (NRC) — the Bugerere STABEX EMC Rally — which tore through the roads of Jinja and Kayunga from July 10th to 12th. As expected, the rally did not disappoint, dramatically reshuffling the standings and intensifying the competition with only a few rounds left.
The biggest headline of Round 4 was none other than Ponsiano Lwakataka, who delivered a masterclass behind the wheel to clinch the victory and pull himself firmly back into the NRC title race. His win added serious heat to the championship, even though Ronald Ssebuguzi managed to retain his top spot on the NRC table with consistent performances across the season.
Meanwhile, Musa Ssegaabwe has slipped into third position, setting up a fiery title chase as we head into the second half of the season. With the top contenders closely packed, it’s clear — the 2025 NRC championship is still wide open.
With Round 5 set for Fort Portal, the rally community is bracing for an explosive showdown. All eyes will be on the “big boys,” as rivalries reignite and unfinished business takes center stage. With only a few rounds left, every second will count — and every mistake will be costly.
One of the standout performances of the Bugerere Rally came from Hassan Alwi Jr, the official flag bearer for the International University of East Africa (IUEA) Rally Team. Driving a roaring Subaru Proto, Alwi Jr finished on the podium — an emphatic statement to the motorsport fraternity that he is no joking subject behind the wheel. His grit and pace not only brought pride to University and his team but proved that he can match up against Uganda’s rally elites.
And as the university team steps off the podium, they extends an open invitation to the Motorsport community. “Come and study with the Winners!”
Hassan Alwi Jr and IUEA management are calling on young enthusiastic and fans alike to apply for your course of choice at the university a place where excellence in academics meets passion in Motorsport.
In the Clubman Rally Championship, Walter Kibande, affectionately known as “Walter Problem (Mat & Ko Walipa Dem)”, continues to sit on the throne despite suffering DNF but maintained his position at the top of the standings with 55 points — despite failing to finish the Bugerere event. His lead, however, is being seriously challenged.
Hajji Kateete, driving with surgical precision and strategy, has crept into second place. While others chase stage wins, Kateete plays the long game — capitalizing on every DNF from competitors to silently rack up the points.
Bebeto now holds third position, while Nkima follows closely in fourth. With Kibande and Bebeto expected to graduate to the NRC soon, they’re already sending a message to the top-tier teams — the next generation is coming with fire.
As we gear up for the thrilling Round 5 in Fort Portal, one thing is certain: the 2025 FMU National Rally Championship is far from decided. With legends, rising stars, and strategic minds all in the mix, expect drama, speed, and pure rally spirit to take over the Fort. Uganda’s motorsport crown is still up for grabs — and the road ahead promises fireworks.
This article is powered by Walts Auto Garage Kireka.
