Former Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda John Patrick Amama Mbabazi was Guest of Honor at the official flag off of the Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally on Friday at Kampala Nile Resort in Namanve.
Amama flagged off some of the crews as fans, guests, sponsors’ representatives and event organizers looked on. Also present at the flag off were; officials from FIA, FMU, National Council of Sports and the like.
Prior to the flag-off, Amama revealed that it was his second time ever at a rally event and he was so delighted to be part of the exercise.
“I first attended a rally in 1968. It was a Safari Rally (East African Safari Rally) held in Kabale. So, today is my second day to be at a rally event and thanks to the organizers for reviving my spirit of motorsport,” Amama said.
The shakedown happened earlier in the day at Mzuri Africa Hotel-Namataba. The first and second legs are slated for Saturday and Sunday.
FMU President Dipu Ruparelia revealed that the shakedown was successful as there were not unfortunate incidences and also that the fans followed safety protocols.
“We want at the end of this event everyone should return home safe. Everyone must play a role when it comes to safety and fans must follow guidelines from safety martials,” Dipu noted.
On Saturday at the first leg of the event proper, there will be five stages, that is; Shekar Mehta, Kivuvu 1, Kasaku Chai, Nakiwunga 1 and Kivuvu 2.
Sunday’s finale will have four stages, that is; Shekar Mehta 2, Kivuvu 3, Nakiwunga 2 and Kivuvu 4, with an overall total rally distance of 426.50km.
This year’s rally is based in Mukono and Lugazi; which are in the central region of Uganda.
Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally will count towards the FIA African Rally Championship and also the National Rally Championship.
48 crews will be in the mix including a huge cast of foreign drivers.
