In the high-octane world of motorsport, where courage meets precision and speed demands resilience, one woman has defied the odds, shattered stereotypes, and paved the way for an entire generation of female enthusiasts Mildred Kibuuka. Her name now echoes far beyond Uganda’s rally circuits, gaining recognition across borders as a symbol of strength, ambition, and inspiration.
On 18th June the Queen of cockpit and style was born in Entebbe, Uganda’s Wakiso district was raised by Mr Moustapha Kibuuka and Ms Esther Kagimu a household rooted in discipline and silent determination, today that same quiet fire burns in her, not through words, but through performance on the track. Mildred’s love for motorsport was never accidental. From the moment she discovered the symphony of engines and the intensity of rally action, she knew this was her world. But rather than watching from the sidelines, she chose the co-driver seat — a space that demands exceptional intellect, focus, and nerves of steel.
Her journey into the sport was not just about personal fulfillment — it was about making a statement. At a time when few women dared to navigate the male-dominated cockpit, Mildred stepped in with quiet determination with Mr Geoffrey Kiyaga (Black widow) in Kalangala Driver’s day out 2009 , turning her passion into a mission. Over the years, she has become not only a seasoned co-driver but a role model and advocate for women in motorsport.
Many motorsport fans in Uganda first came to admire Mildred during her time co-driving with different drivers like Peter Kalule, Hajji Musa Muliika, Fred Kitaka Busulwa and others. The synergy was electrifying. She became a formidable forces on the rally scene. The chemistry in the cockpit was unmatched, and her teamwork was a masterclass in coordination and trust.
Even after that chapters closed, Mildred never slowed down. She has since partnered with various drivers, seamlessly adapting to different driving styles and maintaining her reputation as one of Uganda’s most reliable and tactical co-drivers. She is regarded as the longest – serving active female navigator in Uganda charting notes for rally drivers with remarkable consistency.
In 2025, Mildred Kibuuka etched her name in the annals of African motorsport history by becoming the first Ugandan female co-driver to compete in the World Rally Championship (WRC). Taking on the legendary Safari Rally in Kenya, she partnered with a Kenyan driver Timothy Kinoti and braved one of the most grueling rally terrains on the planet, (12 hours into their partnership piloting a Toyota RunX.
Podium finish in the 2WD category, 10th overall in the KNRC standings, this impressive performance marks a high point in her international co-driving career and solidifies her reputation in the WRC Arena.
This milestone wasn’t just a personal victory; it was a victory for Uganda, East Africa, and every young girl watching from the sidelines, wondering if she, too, could one day chase dust and glory.
Her participation in WRC wasn’t handed to her — it was earned through years of discipline, unwavering passion, and undeniable talent. In doing so, Mildred not only raised Uganda’s flag on a global stage but also broke a barrier that had never been touched before by any Ugandan female co-driver.
Beyond the stages and the trophies, Mildred’s true legacy lies in how deeply she has inspired others. As the General Secretary of Women in Motorsport Uganda (WIMU), she plays a pivotal role in empowering women across all motorsport roles — from co-driving to timekeeping, media to safety.
She’s the mentor many wish they had, constantly encouraging girls to take up space in a sport long considered out of reach for women. Her commitment to the growth of the sport goes beyond the cockpit. It’s evident in the trainings, workshops she supports, the young women she trains, and the policies she helps shape within WIMU.
In August 2025, her contributions were formally recognized when she was awarded the Best Female Co-Driver of the Event in Fort Portal, a well-deserved honor that reinforced her influence both on and off the track.
Despite her accolades, Mildred remains teamless — a free agent, for now, collaborating with Samuel Bwete (Kawunyemu Rally Team) and with drivers across the region. But don’t mistake this as a pause in momentum. If anything, her solo journey showcases her versatility and hunger for more. She’s not waiting for opportunity; she’s creating it. And while the next chapter of her career is still unfolding, one thing is clear — Mildred Kibuuka is far from done. Her sights are set on new peaks, new championships, and even more groundbreaking achievements.
Mildred Kibuuka is more than a co-driver. She is a movement. A trailblazer. A symbol of what’s possible when talent meets purpose. Whether it’s the unforgiving terrain of the Safari Rally or the administrative boardrooms of motorsport associations, she shows up with fire in her heart and Women in Motorsport Uganda on her back.
To the East African fans and motorsport lovers across the continent, keep your eyes on Mildred Kibuuka. She’s racing for the win — and for every girl who’s ever dreamed of holding a stopwatch, wearing a helmet, or hearing the roar of engines not as a spectator, but as a champion.
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