National Championship event proceeds amid calls for urgent safety reforms

Uganda’s motorsport community is mourning the loss of 9-year-old Techla Mary Nalwanga, a rising star in motocross, who tragically died on Sunday following a training accident at Garuga Race Track.

The incident occurred just days before the 6th Round of Uganda’s National Motocross Championship, set to take place this weekend at the same venue.

Techla, who competed in the 50cc PeeWee class designed for children under 12 was the niece of African rally icon Susan “The Queen of Speed” Muwonge. She sustained fatal injuries during a practice session and was rushed to Kisubi Hospital, where she later succumbed.

Federation launches investigation

The Federation of Motorsport Uganda (FMU) has announced a full forensic investigation into the tragedy.

“Our entire federation mourns with Techla’s family,” said FMU President Jimmy Akena.
“Beyond condolences, we’re initiating a review of all youth training protocols. No child will return to a track without robust safety standards in place.”

FMU Deputy Vice President Raynold Kibira added key details, clarifying that the session was parent-organized at a private practice area adjacent to the official Garuga track.

“Even if not officially sanctioned, we take responsibility for broader safety oversight. We’ve called an emergency stakeholder summit this Thursday to set binding safety frameworks for all youth training—private or otherwise,” Kibira said.

Grief turns to demands for reform

Parents and community members are calling for sweeping changes to Uganda’s youth motorsport system.

Ritah Nabatanzi, mother of three motocross riders, voiced the collective anguish:

“Devastating doesn’t even begin to describe it. Motocross thrives on adrenaline, but our children’s survival depends on enforced safety. No child should ever be allowed near a track without certified medical and coaching staff present.”

Another parent, speaking anonymously, highlighted structural concerns:

“FMU must certify youth coaches through standardized programs. We cannot allow 50cc kids to train alongside 250cc experts. The speed gap is deadly. This isn’t just negligence—it’s a failure to protect our future champions.”

Uganda’s youth talent at risk

Uganda’s motocross scene boasts the strongest youth pipeline in East and Central Africa, with over 60% of regional competitors being Ugandan children. The country is currently ranked #3 on the African motocross leaderboard, a position now overshadowed by rising safety concerns.

Parents, riders, and stakeholders are calling on FMU to immediately:

Implement mandatory coach certification programs
Enforce strict age- and skill-based training segregation
Ensure on-site medical teams at all training facilities
Develop and enforce national safety protocols even at private tracks

Racing forward With reflection

Despite the grief, the upcoming National Championship event will proceed as planned. A moment of silence will be observed in honor of Techla, whose legacy may now shape the future of child safety in African motorsport.

As Uganda grapples with this heartbreaking loss, the call is clear: motorsport must evolve not only in speed and spectacle—but in responsibility and protection.

Lucid News Africa will continue to follow developments as FMU responds to the mounting calls for reform.