KCB Bank Uganda, in partnership with the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU), has officially flagged off Oscar Ntambi and his co-driver Asuman Muhammed ahead of the 2026 World Rally Championship Safari Rally.
The ceremony, held at the FMU headquarters in Lugogo, also unveiled fellow Ugandan drivers Duncan Mubiru, Yasin Nasser and Timothy Gawaya, signalling a stronger national presence at the 2026 rally. The Ugandan contingent is set to compete in Naivasha, Kenya, from March 12–15, 2026.
The flag-off follows KCB Bank’s recent sponsorship announcement supporting Ntambi and Muhammed’s participation in the global championship. KCB Group has committed up to KShs 227 million towards motorsport development in the region, funding aimed at maximising team performance and equipping local talent with the technical and financial support required to compete at the highest level.
FMU further reinforced national backing with an additional commitment of shs40 million to support the team’s travel, accommodation and logistical preparations.
While officiating the flag-off, Zainab Kalyowa, Brand Experience Manager at KCB Bank Uganda representing the Head of Marketing, described the event as a milestone for Uganda’s motorsport fraternity.
“Today marks a significant milestone for Uganda’s motorsport fraternity. We are proud to flag off not only Uganda’s finest talent, but competitors representing Africa on the global stage. We believe Oscar, alongside the other drivers, will make Uganda proud. His journey from local champion to WRC contender is a true testament to our ‘For People. For Better.’ promise, which continues to guide our commitment to investing in communities and nurturing excellence,” she said.
Kalyowa added that KCB believes in the power of sport to unite and inspire, noting the bank’s continued investment across disciplines including rugby, volleyball and golf.
Oscar Ntambi, a former National Rally Champion, will pilot a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X Ralliart as he makes his debut appearance on the world stage.
“I am immensely thankful to KCB Bank for believing in me and supporting my journey to the WRC. This is not just a personal achievement, but a representation of our nation's potential on the world stage. I am ready to give my all in Naivasha and make my country proud,” Ntambi said.
The acting FMU President called on Ugandans to rally behind the drivers, urging fans to wave national flags high and showcase the passion and talent within Uganda’s motorsport scene.
Rally Format and Itinerary
The 2026 Safari Rally will cover a total competitive distance of 350.02 kilometres, supported by a liaison distance of 842.9 kilometres, in line with FIA requirements. The four-day event will be based in Naivasha, aligning with FIA 2026 sporting regulations on distances and crew working hours.
On Thursday, March 12, drivers will participate in a shakedown at the newly introduced Nawisa stage, followed by a ceremonial flag-off before passing through Camp Moran and Mzabibu stages.
On Friday, March 13, competitors will tackle Camp Moran, Loldia, Geothermal and Kedong stages.
On Saturday, March 14, action moves to Soysambu, Elementaita and Sleeping Warrior, concluding with an autograph session at Mzabibu.
Sunday, March 15, will see cars race through Oserengoni and Hell’s Gate before the decisive Wolf Power Stage and the prize-giving ceremony.
Ntambi will compete alongside global rally stars such as Sébastien Ogier and Thierry Neuville.
As part of its rally campaign, KCB Bank Uganda is offering customers a chance to win VIP tickets to the Safari Rally.
Officials said customers who transact using KCB Mobile Banking, via the app or *244#, stand a chance to attend the event live in Kenya.
“As Ntambi heads into the Safari Rally’s challenging and dusty stages, KCB Bank Uganda is calling on all Ugandans to rally behind him. We are also rewarding customers who transact through KCB Mobile Banking with a chance to win VIP tickets to watch the Safari Rally live in Kenya, bringing the thrill of the WRC closer to fans who champion the sport,” Kalyowa said.