KCB Bank Uganda has officially announced its sponsorship of the Pearl of Africa Rally Championship with Shs 80 million during a launch event held at Mestil Hotel in Kampala.
The rally is scheduled to take place from May, 7 to 9 2026 in Mbarara.
The launch event attracted key stakeholders, including FMU leadership, rally drivers, fans, and members of the media.
A major highlight of the partnership is KCB Bank Uganda’s sponsorship of three standout drivers: Mutebi Nasser, Mike Mukula Jr., and Oscar Ntambi, who recently secured first place in the ARC2 category during their debut in the World Rally Championship (WRC).
Dr. Patrick Ogwel, General Secretary of the National Council of Sports, expressed appreciation for the sponsorship, noting that such partnerships are critical to the growth of sports in Uganda.
“The commitment to sponsoring the Pearl of Africa Rally elevates this event to new heights. It brings communities together, and at the National Council of Sports, we believe sports can only thrive through partnership and collaboration. This is exactly what our athletes need to transition from local success to international excellence,” he said.
He added that collaboration with FMU will help ensure motorsport remains a source of national pride.
Captain Mike Mukula, patron of FMU, also commended the drivers and sponsors for their role in developing the sport.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the drivers for their dedication and to KCB Bank Uganda and Shell Vivo for their crucial sponsorship. I also urge the Government of Uganda to include motorsport in the national sports agenda to further unlock its potential,” he said.
Mukula further encouraged the integration of themes such as environmental sustainability and community health into rally events, while emphasizing the importance of local leadership presence at flag-off ceremonies to promote regional pride and economic growth.
Noela Byuma, Head of Marketing and Communications at KCB Bank Uganda, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to motorsport development.
“We are deeply invested in the future of motorsport in Uganda. This commitment has been strengthened by our recent title sponsorship of the National Rally Championship (NRC). Supporting the sport at both local and regional levels is key to its professional growth,” she said.
She also encouraged fans to attend the rally in Mbarara, noting that tickets are available at Shs 10,000 via KCB Pay by dialling 2449# and entering merchant code 125122.
One of the sponsored drivers, Nasser Mutebi, expressed gratitude for the support and pledged to deliver strong performance.
“It is an honour to carry KCB Bank colours into the Pearl of Africa Rally. This sponsorship is a responsibility I take seriously. Our preparation has been intense, and our goal is to compete for the top of the National Rally Championship podium,” he said.
KCB Bank Uganda also emphasized its commitment to environmental sustainability, stating that measures are in place to ensure the rally leaves minimal environmental impact in Mbarara.
Beyond motorsport, the bank continues to invest in sports such as rugby, golf, and volleyball, focusing on professional growth and talent development. Its new role as title sponsor of the National Rally Championship further strengthens its position in Uganda’s sports ecosystem.
Through its partnership with FMU, KCB Bank Uganda aims to elevate the standards of rallying in the country and provide a stronger platform for drivers to compete at an international level.
