Ugandan rally driver Ponsiano Lwakataka has promised to showcase new skills and tactics acquired during his recent competition in Rwanda when he takes part in the upcoming Garuga rally on Sunday, October 25.

Lwakataka who competes for the Mafumafu Rally Team, made the pledge during a welcome luncheon hosted at Viga Sports Lounge and Bar in Kyebando, Kampala. Fellow rally drivers, navigators and fans attended the event to celebrate his performance in the Huye Rally Championship in Rwanda.

“I want to invite all my fans to come to the upcoming Garuga rally this Sunday and see the new tactics I learnt in Rwanda, where I competed against Kigali-based drivers,” Lwakataka told Bbeg Media.

Lwakataka finished second in the Huye rally despite mechanical challenges with his car. He said the experience had given him an opportunity to learn from drivers familiar with Rwanda’s rally routes and terrain, knowledge he hopes to put to use in Uganda.

He also revealed that his team was still negotiating with the Rwandan government on possible arrangements to promote motorsport and strengthen cooperation between rally stakeholders in the two countries.

Lwakataka thanked his main sponsor, Komodo, for facilitating his participation in the Rwandan competition, saying the support enabled him to represent Uganda at the event.

Although he had hoped to meet Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Lwakataka said he did not get the opportunity.

However, he met the mayor of Huye District, where the rally was held, and said their discussions showed a willingness to cooperate.

The Ugandan driver also commended fellow competitors, including Yusuf Babu of the Eastern Motor Club and Faisal Kayiira of the Just Bayaaye Rally Team, for their participation in the competition.

Kayiira finished fifth in the Huye rally, according to the organisers’ reported results. Lwakata said the experience of some Ugandan drivers on Rwanda’s terrain had helped them navigate the competition.

Semakula Katende of the Southern Motor Club praised Lwakata and the other Ugandan competitors for representing the country in Rwanda.

Katende urged the drivers to remain dedicated and strengthen their teamwork, saying continued commitment was important for the growth of motorsport in Uganda.

He also called on rally fans and Ugandans to turn up in large numbers for the Garuga event on October 25 to support the country’s drivers.

Nasib Ssesanga, a fellow rally driver who hosted the welcome luncheon, urged companies and members of the public to make a habit of welcoming and congratulating drivers when they return from competitions.

Ssesanga said recognising the drivers’ efforts would encourage them to work harder, improve their performance and remain committed to the sport.