The engines are warming up, the bikes are ready, and Uganda’s Motocross Cranes are preparing for another continental battle. Team Uganda has officially been flagged off for the 2026 FIM Africa Motocross of African Nations (MXoAN), with 34 riders set to carry the national colours to Windhoek, Namibia, for the continental showdown at Gallina Motocross Park on August 29–30, 2026.
The official flag-off ceremony was held at the National Council of Sports (NCS), where Dr. Bernard Ogwel blessed the team and sent the riders off with a message of encouragement as they prepare to take on some of Africa’s best motocross talent. The Ugandan contingent heads to Namibia after an intensive period of preparation on local tracks, including training sessions at Garuga and Busika, as riders fine-tuned their machines, fitness and race strategy ahead of the demanding continental championship, leading the charge will be team captain Gift Ssebuguzi, whose experience and leadership will be vital as Uganda seeks to make a strong statement on the African stage.
But this year’s team is not only about numbers and horsepower. It is also a reflection of the growing strength and diversity of Ugandan motocross.
15 female riders ready to make history
Of the 34 riders confirmed for the MXoAN mission, 15 are female riders, underlining the growing influence of women and girls in Ugandan motocross, among those carrying the country’s hopes is Jamaira Makumbi, the reigning champion, who returns to the continental stage determined to defend Uganda’s honour. Makumbi has made her intentions clear—she is not travelling to Namibia simply to participate. She wants to bring the championship back home, her rise has already made her one of the notable young names in Ugandan motocross. FIM Africa has previously highlighted Uganda’s growing generation of female riders, with Jamaira among the young talents helping to raise the profile of women in the sport.
Uganda’s presence at the MXoAN has grown significantly over the years. FIM Africa has described the country’s development in motocross as a remarkable transformation—from early participation with limited resources to a country now boasting multiple motocross tracks, structured rider development and increasing international exposure. The 2026 championship therefore represents more than another weekend of racing. It is another opportunity for Uganda’s riders to demonstrate how far the sport has come.
The Motocross Cranes will face strong opposition from established motocross nations, but with a well-prepared squad, experienced leadership and an impressive female contingent, Uganda arrives in Windhoek with confidence.
For the riders, the mission is simple: race hard, represent Uganda with pride and fight for every point. From Garuga and Busika to the sands of Gallina Motocross Park, the journey is now underway.
Namibia awaits. Africa is watching.
And when the gates drop in Windhoek, 34 Motocross Cranes will be carrying more than helmets and racing numbers—they will be carrying the Ugandan flag and the hopes of a nation.
The race for Africa starts now.
