By Mwambazi lawrence – Kampala, Uganda
The African Rally Championship (ARC) 2024 season is gearing up for an electrifying start as celebrated rally driver Ponsiano Lwakataka, also known as “Mafu Mafu,” has officially registered ARC. Lwakataka, known for his daring driving style and competitive spirit, will be accompanied by his co-driver Mugisha Samuel, a seasoned navigator in the rally circuit.
The Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally, slated to be the first round of the ARC 2024 following the withdrawal of Ivory Coast, promises to set the tone for an exhilarating season. Lwakataka and Samuel will be driving their Subaru Impreza N12B, a robust and reliable machine expected to handle the challenging terrain and intense competition.
In addition to the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally, the duo has confirmed participation in the Kenya Equator Rally, as well as events in Tanzania, Burundi, and Rwanda. This ambitious schedule indicates the pair’s commitment to achieving top honors in the 2024 ARC season.
The addition of Lwakataka and Samuel brings the total number of ARC-registered crews participating in the Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally to seven. They join a competitive field that includes Jas Mangat, the crew of Karan Patel and Tauseef Khan, the crew of Hamza Anwar and Adnan Din, the crew of Moustapha Mukasa and Mwambazi Lawrence, the crew of Kuku Ranjit and Siraj Kyambade, and the crew of Micheal Mukula Jr. and Edward Kiyingi.
Speaking about the upcoming season, Lwakataka expressed his excitement and determination to compete at the highest level. “We’re ready for the challenge and can’t wait to hit the road. The competition is fierce, but we believe we have the skill and the car to make a strong impact,” he said.
The Shell V-Power Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally is expected to attract thousands of rally enthusiasts, with its thrilling stages and scenic landscapes. With a lineup of skilled drivers and navigators, the event is poised to be a spectacle that sets the pace for the rest of the ARC 2024 season.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow Lwakataka, Mugisha, and the rest of the ARC crews throughout the season.