Oscar Ntambi: From Uganda’s Gravel Stages to the World Stage at Safari Rally Kenya
In the unforgiving world of rallying, careers are not built overnight. They are carved stage by stage — through dust, broken parts, hard lessons, and quiet determination. Few stories in Ugandan motorsport embody this truth better than that of Oscar Ntambi, a driver whose steady rise through the national ranks has now earned him a place on one of rallying’s grandest stages: the WRC Safari Rally Kenya.
A product of the fiercely competitive 2021 rally era, Ntambi emerged with a reputation for resilience, adaptability, and an unmistakable hunger for success on gravel. From his earliest appearances, it was clear he was not simply participating — he was learning, evolving, and preparing for something bigger.
Ntambi’s first major statement came in 2022, a season that would permanently etch his name into Uganda’s rally history. Competing in a Toyota Alteza, he delivered a campaign defined by precision, maturity, and controlled aggression, ultimately claiming the 2WD Category Championship.
It was a title that announced his arrival. More importantly, it showcased a driver with rare balance able to extract speed without losing composure. Within the National Rally Championship paddock, respect followed quickly. Oscar Ntambi was no longer a prospect; he was a proven champion.
From 2023 to 2025, Ntambi embraced a new challenge — stepping into Subaru rally machinery and competing in Division 2 of the National Rally Championship. The transition demanded more than speed; it required adaptability, technical understanding, and mental strength. On loose and unpredictable surfaces, Ntambi thrived. His natural command of gravel, combined with fearless car control, earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting drivers to watch. Fans quickly gave him a nickname that stuck “The 360 King” — a reflection of his spectacular car control and ability to save situations others would surrender to.
Rallying is never a solo act, and a major pillar of Ntambi’s success has been the strength of his in-car partnerships. At the heart of his journey is his long-standing collaboration with Uthuman Muhammad, a co-driver whose influence goes far beyond pace notes. Their chemistry is built on trust — the most valuable currency in rallying, where decisions are made at speed and consequences are absolute. Uthuman has also played a key technical role within the Forest Rally Team, contributing significantly to its competitiveness and operational growth.
The 2025 season delivered another defining chapter when Ntambi unveiled a new machine — a BBY Mitsubishi Evo X, acquired from Adam Essa Rauf. Its debut at the Busika Champions Sprint sparked excitement across the motorsport community while the performance was confident and encouraging. It was clear this was a car with serious potential and a driver patient enough to master it.
With the Evo X now fully integrated, expectations heading into 2026 have risen sharply. And now comes the defining moment.
In 2026, Oscar Ntambi will represent Uganda at the WRC Safari Rally Kenya, an event that serves as the opening round of the Africa Rally Championship (ARC) and the third round of the World Rally Championship (WRC) — widely regarded as one of the toughest and most unpredictable rallies on the global calendar.
That milestone was officially sealed at a landmark KCB Bank sponsorship launch, where the regional banking powerhouse unveiled its Safari Rally driver line-up in a bold show of commitment to African motorsport. As one of the most consistent and influential corporate supporters of rallying in East Africa, KCB Bank has continued to invest strategically in talent and the growth of the sport across the region.
In reaffirming its long-standing association with the Safari Rally and the Africa Rally Championship, KCB Bank once again demonstrated why it remains a cornerstone sponsor of African rallying. From Kenya to Rwanda, Uganda and beyond, the bank’s backing has not only elevated drivers but strengthened the visibility of East Africa on the global motorsport stage.
Among the drivers unveiled was Oscar Ntambi — proudly carrying the Ugandan flag onto one of rallying’s biggest arenas. His inclusion in the KCB line-up signals belief in his journey, his discipline, and his potential to compete at an international level.
The launch was more than a team announcement; it was a statement of intent. KCB Bank’s motorsport programme continues to reflect ambition, regional unity, and corporate leadership — aligning with drivers who embody resilience, performance, and forward momentum.
For Ntambi, the opportunity arrives at the perfect moment. Together with Uthuman Muhammad, he heads into the Safari Rally fully aware of the challenge ahead — rough terrain, deep ruts, rocky roads, sandy tracks, intense heat, and the ever-present threat of sudden rainfall.
Oscar approaches this stage with clarity and humility. He is not chasing comparisons, nor weighed down by expectation. This rally is about experience, learning, and growth. Coming shortly after the introduction of a new Evo X, the Safari Rally promises lessons that will shape the next phase of his career.
He knows he will line up against bigger machines and global names. But he also understands that rallying is a journey — and this is a necessary step forward.
As KCB Bank prepares to lead its team into the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2026, one thing is certain Oscar Ntambi is representing Uganda on one of motorsport’s biggest stages, backed by an institution that continues to power the dreams of East African rally talent.
For those who have followed his journey from local gravel stages, to national titles, and now to international competition — this moment is earned. It is the product of persistence, courage, and belief.
On gravel, he brings heat, power, and relentless intent.
Now, with KCB Bank’s backing and the eyes of the Uganda upon him, the world is watching.
