2025 Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally as been today officially launch at Mestil. This year’s Pearl Rally doubles as the second round on the African Rally Championship (ARC) and also the third round on the National Rally Championship (NRC).
The event that evolved from the Great Lakes Rally, which was jointly organized by Uganda together with Club Automobile du Burundi in 1997 is scheduled to take place in Mbarara City from 8th to 10th May 2025. It will be the first time that the ARC round is organized outside central Uganda.
During the launch, KCB Bank announced its sponsorship package for event as it injected 80 million Uganda shillings.
Sheila Awori, KCB Bank’s Acting Head of Marketing announced the package saying that; “We are very privileged to be part of this prestigious event. Our support goes beyond the sponsorship. We want to position ourselves with the sport and the communities we serve.”
The package was well received by Hon. James Akena, President of the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) who said; “As FMU, we pledge to give our sponsors value for money, proper accountability and visibility in what has been very transparent and engaging discussion leading up to this day.
“This new edition is an invitation to the auspicious part of Uganda. Mbarara is popular for its milk. There will be everything to enjoy there including rally. Overall, safety is our priority for everyone.”
According to Kisitu Mayanja, the Clerk of Course, FMU always desired to showcase its premier event as a reflection of our country, the Pearl of Africa.
“We have managed to achieve it with this change. Mbarara has a rich cultural heritage but also wildlife. These are the things we want our fans to enjoy because the reflect our coutry.”
Apart from KCB Bank, Pearl Rally is sponsored by other partners including; Shell V-Power, Coca-Cola, Lakeview Resort Hotel, Isuzu Uganda, Fire and Safety Appliances, ROMA Motors (U) Ltd, Nagrc (DB) Farm, Government of Uganda thru (NCS), Uganda Police, UPDF, Hon. Mwesigwa Resort, and others.
The event will have 11 sections covering a total distance of 486.26 km of which 298.16 km will be liaison as 188.10 km competitive.
