KCB Bank Uganda Flags Off Oscar Ntambi Ahead of 2026 WRC Safari Rally

KCB Bank Uganda Flags Off Oscar Ntambi Ahead of 2026 WRC Safari Rally

BY BOBSON OPIO

KAMPALA, Uganda – 3rd March 2026 – KCB Bank Uganda, in partnership with the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU), has officially flagged off Ugandan rally driver 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 global motorsport showpiece scheduled for 12th–15th March 2026 in Naivasha, Kenya.

Strong Financial Backing for Regional Motorsport

The flag-off follows KCB Bank’s recent sponsorship announcement supporting Ntambi’s participation in the 2026 Safari Rally. KCB Group has committed up to KShs 227 million, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to motorsport development in the region.

The funding is intended to maximise team performance and provide local talent with the technical and financial backing required to compete against the world’s best.

FMU further reinforced national support with an additional UGX 40 million contribution towards travel, accommodation, and logistical preparations, underscoring its mandate to facilitate Ugandan participation at elite international competitions.

KCB: Investing in Talent and National Pride

While officiating the ceremony on behalf of the Head of Marketing, Brand Experience Manager Zainab Kalyowa described the moment as historic for Ugandan motorsport.

“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. Oscar’s journey from local champion to WRC contender is a true testament to our ‘For People. For Better.’ promise.”

Kalyowa added that KCB believes in the power of sport to unite and inspire communities.

“We are proud to provide the platform and resources that help our athletes transition from local success to international recognition not just in motorsport, but across other disciplines such as rugby, volleyball, and golf. We remain committed to nurturing Uganda’s sporting talent.”

Ntambi Ready for World Stage Debut

Ntambi, a former National Rally Champion, will pilot a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X Ralliart in his debut appearance at the WRC Safari Rally.

Expressing his appreciation, Ntambi said:

“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.”

The Acting President of FMU called upon Ugandans to rally behind the team:

“Your support is vital in showcasing the passion and talent within Ugandan motorsport. Together, let’s elevate the profile of our nation’s motorsport scene and continue driving toward excellence.”

Rally Itinerary and Competition Details

The 2026 Safari Rally will cover a 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 entirely in Naivasha to meet the FIA 2026 sporting regulations on distances and crew working hours.

• Thursday, 12th March: Shakedown at the newly introduced Nawisa stage, followed by a ceremonial flag-off and runs through Camp Moran and Mzabibu.
• Friday, 13th March: Stages include Camp Moran, Loldia, Geothermal, and Kedong.
• Saturday, 14th March: Action moves to Soysambu, Elementaita, and Sleeping Warrior, concluding with an autograph session at Mzabibu.
• Sunday, 15th March: Final showdown at Oserengoni and Hell’s Gate before the Wolf Power Stage and the prize-giving ceremony.

Ntambi will compete alongside global rally icons such as Sébastien Ogier and Thierry Neuville, adding to the prestige and intensity of the event.

Customers to Win VIP Safari Rally Experience

During the rally period, KCB Bank Uganda is rewarding customers who transact using its mobile banking platforms. Customers using the KCB App or dialing *244# stand a chance to win VIP tickets to watch the Safari Rally live in Kenya.

“As Ntambi heads into the Safari Rally’s challenging and dusty stages, we are calling on all Ugandans to rally behind him. Through our mobile banking platforms, customers also have the opportunity to experience the thrill of the WRC live in Kenya,” Kalyowa concluded.

About KCB Bank Uganda

KCB Bank Uganda is a licensed commercial bank regulated by the Bank of Uganda. The bank operates 15 branches, 15 ATMs, 385 bank agents, and 295 merchant outlets across the country.

Its mission is:
“To drive efficiency whilst growing market share to be the preferred financial solutions provider in Africa with global reach.”