Ugandan Duo Reign Supreme at 2026 WRC Safari Rally in Kenya

Ugandan rally driver Oscar Ntambi and his co-driver Uthman Mohammad secured a remarkable victory in the ARC2 category at the 2024 Kenya Safari Rally.

The duo triumphed in their World Rally Championship (WRC) debut, showcasing impressive skill and resilience on one of the world's most demanding rally circuits.

Competing under the Forest Rally Team banner and sponsored by KCB Bank, Ntambi and Mohammad navigated their Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X through treacherous conditions to outperform Kenya’s Evans Nzioka. The Safari Rally is notorious for its harsh gravel sections, deep ruts, and unpredictable weather, testing both driver and machine to their absolute limits.

Despite facing mechanical setbacks, including an overheating issue that forced a temporary stop, the Ugandan team maintained their composure. Their strategic driving and focus on endurance over raw speed proved to be a winning formula on the punishing Kenyan terrain.

"Safari Rally is one of the toughest rallies in the world, and it pushes both driver and machine to the limit," said Ntambi as quoted by Kawowo Sports. "Although there were some mechanical difficulties along the way, the main goal was to control the vehicle and finish well. We are really grateful to our sponsor, KCB Bank, for the opportunity and proud of ourselves for finishing our first WRC rally and getting this outcome."

The rally's competitive route spanned over 350 kilometers, featuring iconic and challenging stages like Camp Moran, Kedong, Sleeping Warrior, and Hell’s Gate. These sections are known for their rugged terrain and high-speed passages that often penalise even the most experienced drivers.

Ntambi's victory highlights the growing strength of Ugandan motorsport on the international stage, with several other crews from the country also participating in the classic event. KCB Bank Uganda, a key supporter of Ntambi's campaign, praised the team for their tenacity.

"It takes incredible agility and perseverance to compete at the World Rally Championship level for the first time and come out on top," stated Noela Byuma, Head of Marketing and Communications at KCB Bank Uganda. "As KCB Bank Uganda, we are very proud of Oscar’s performance and for putting not just the bank, but our country on the map at such a big event."

Byuma added that the bank remains committed to sports development, which includes investments in rugby, golf, volleyball, and marathons as part of its broader youth development initiatives.

For Ntambi and Mohammad, this victory marks a significant milestone in their careers and serves as a springboard for future international competitions. The experience gained at the legendary Safari Rally has been invaluable.

"This rally has been an amazing learning experience," Ntambi reflected. "Completing the Safari Rally was a dream, and this outcome inspires us to keep going."

While the Ugandan crew celebrated their class win, the overall victory in the main WRC category went to Japan's Takamoto Katsuta and his co-driver Aaron Johnston.