EMC rally set to determine title contenders in high-stakes showdown
The 2025 National Rally Championship (NRC) hits a pivotal moment as drivers prepare for the high-stakes EMC Rally, set to tear through the rugged terrains of Jinja and Kayunga from July 10–12. With just 9.5 points separating the top two contenders, this fourth-round battle is poised to reshape the championship race.
A thrilling lineup of elite drivers is expected to light up the course, including Ronald Sebuguzi, Musa Ssegaabawe, Ponsiano Lwakataka, Duncan Mubiru, Didas Matsiko, and Aine Sodo, all gunning for glory.
Sebuguzi leads, playing the long game
At the top of the standings sits Ronald Sebuguzi with 142 points, piloting a Ford Fiesta Proto. While yet to secure a win this season, his consistency has kept him in the lead.
“We’re playing the long game—finishing is winning at this stage,” Sebuguzi stated.
His calculated approach has paid off so far, but the pressure is mounting.
Ssegaabawe in pursuit, eyes first, NRC Title
Just behind is reigning CRC champion Musa Ssegaabawe with 132.5 points, driving a Mitsubishi Evo IX. Known for his blistering pace, Ssegaabawe is determined to capture his first national rally title.
“This is our moment to prove we belong with the elite. We’ll push where necessary, but finishing is key. Many see us as underdogs, but we’re ready,” he said.
With co-driver Mathius Kiyegge by his side, Ssegaabawe’s blend of aggression and strategy could see him leapfrog into the lead with a strong finish in Kayunga.
Lwakataka’s experience is still in the mix
In third place with 117 points, rally legend Ponsiano Lwakataka remains a serious threat. His victories in Mbarara and Masaka earlier in the season proved he’s still a force, even if his Subaru N12 lacks the raw speed of newer machines. What Lwakataka may lack in power, he makes up for in racecraft and tactical precision.
Duncan Mubiru roars back
Also making waves is Duncan Mubiru, who has reignited his championship hopes with a powerful return in his Ford Fiesta Proto R5. Fresh from finishing 2nd overall at the Pearl of Africa Rally, Mubiru is now a major wildcard capable of shaking up the pecking order.
2WD and CRC battles heating up
The battle for 2WD supremacy is also red-hot. Edward Kirumira leads the category with 27 points in his Toyota Corolla, chased by Hajj Amir Kavuma (19.5 points) and Julius Semambo (17 points).
In the CRC category, the tension is just as high. Table leader Walter Kibande (55 points) is expected to defend his position fiercely against second-placed Robert Sentongo (40 points). However, the ever-dangerous Ahmed Kateete, driving a crafty Subaru GC8, lurks just behind with 38 points, ready to capitalize on any slip-up from the top two.
Kateete’s reputation for opportunistic driving makes him a real threat in the unpredictable Kayunga stages.
A rally that will test men and machines
The two-day event will feature five high-speed stages, covering 154.46 competitive kilometers. The challenging course will test not only mechanical durability but also the endurance and focus of every driver.
With the championship wide open, the EMC Rally stands as the ultimate litmus test for title hopefuls. Will Sebuguzi’s steady hand keep him in front? Will Ssegaabawe finally break through? Or will the veteran instincts of Lwakataka seize control once more?
One thing is certain: Kayunga’s unforgiving terrain will separate the contenders from the pretenders.
