KCB Uganda Elevates National Rally Championship with Landmark Sponsorship Deal
Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) Uganda has solidified its commitment to Ugandan motorsports by securing an exclusive title sponsorship for the 2026 Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC). This significant financial injection heralds a new era for the sport, with the championship now officially rebranded as the KCB National Rally Championship.
The partnership marks a substantial milestone, injecting Shs560 million into the sport and underscoring KCB’s long-standing dedication to motorsports in the region. The bank is no stranger to the adrenaline-fueled world of rallying, having consistently sponsored the prestigious African Rally Championship (ARC) event, the Pearl of Africa Rally, since 2010. This established relationship provides a strong foundation for the expanded commitment to the national championship.
During the official announcement at the bank’s headquarters on Lugogo Bypass, Edgar Byamah, the Managing Director of KCB Uganda, expressed his enthusiasm for the expanded partnership. He highlighted the intrinsic connection between the growth of motorsports and the success of the bank, stating, “Motorsport in Uganda is a mass sport, one of teamwork, and to see it growing means success to us as well.” Byamah extended his gratitude to the Federation of Motorsport Unions (FMU) leadership for facilitating this collaboration and acknowledged the contributions of other partners who have joined the initiative. He also issued a direct encouragement to the drivers participating in the season opener, urging them to compete fiercely and contribute to the sport’s continued advancement.
The sentiment was reciprocated by FMU President Jimmy Akena, who lauded KCB for their pivotal role in forging what he described as a “defining partnership.” Akena expressed his conviction that this collaboration will fundamentally reshape the landscape of motorsports in Uganda.
“I am truly most grateful, and this day should remain something very important in motorsports, not only for the crews you have supported, but also, for now supporting the whole motorsport fraternity in the country,” Akena remarked. He further elaborated on the demanding nature of the sport, emphasizing that success in this “high octane sport is not something for the faint hearted and it is not something for those who lack that level of commitment.” Akena acknowledged the substantial investment required for such an endeavor and conveyed his profound appreciation for KCB’s consistent and now expanded sponsorship, believing that this commitment will undoubtedly propel the sport to new heights.
The 2026 KCB National Rally Championship season is set to ignite this weekend with the opening event taking place across Mbale, Budaka, and Bukedea. This two-day spectacle promises to be a fitting tribute to the sport’s history and its dedicated contributors. Several stages within the rally have been thoughtfully named in honor of individuals who have significantly impacted Ugandan motorsports. These include:
- Dusman Okee: A former FMU president, recognized for his leadership and vision.
- Dr. Arthur Ahimbisibwe (RIP): Acknowledged for his contributions, even in remembrance.
- Ali Katumba and Yasin Nasser: The current Africa Rally Champions, celebrating their recent achievements and ongoing influence.
Clerk of Course Ali Katumba provided further details about the challenging route, noting that the longest stage will span 16 kilometers, while the shortest will measure 12.4 kilometers. This strategic mix of lengths ensures a comprehensive test of both speed and endurance for the competitors.
The 2026 KCB National Rally Championship Calendar:
The full schedule for the 2026 season has been released, promising a year of thrilling competition across various regions of Uganda:
- Mbale: March 27-28
- Mbarara: May 7-8
- Masaka: June 19-20
- Soroti/Katakwi: July 4-5
- NRC 5: September 4-5 (To Be Confirmed)
- Gulu: October 9-10
- Hoima: November 13-14
- Central Region: December 11-13
This comprehensive calendar ensures widespread engagement and provides ample opportunities for drivers and fans to participate in and experience the excitement of the KCB National Rally Championship throughout the year. The unprecedented sponsorship from KCB Uganda is poised to elevate the sport’s profile, enhance its professional standards, and foster a more vibrant and competitive motorsports community in the nation.
