🏍️ Motorsport thrills Katakwi as residents flock to historic showcase

Business came to a standstill in Katakwi Town Council, Katakwi District, as hundreds of excited residents flooded the main roads leading to Apuuton Primary School to witness the district’s first-ever motorsport event.

The high-energy showcase, featuring daring young motorbike riders and rally drivers, captivated the crowd and brought a festive atmosphere to the town.

The event was part of a series of pre-rally activities organized to welcome President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who was campaigning in the area on Friday, November 13, 2025.

“Today has been a unique day in my life. Since childhood, I’ve never seen motorcycles fly five meters into the air,” said Micheal Okiring, a resident of Katakwi Town Council. “I’m truly grateful to the Katakwi leadership for organising such an exceptional event.”

Okiring recalled last hearing about motorsport in August 2023 during the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba Football Cup in Soroti City. He urged the government to expand motorsport events to every district, saying it would give more people the chance to be recognized and inspired.

Jane Akello, a resident of Usuk Sub-county, was equally thrilled. “I’ve only ever seen this sport on television. Today was the first time I saw it live, and it was incredible,” she said.

Katakwi District LCV Chairperson Geoffrey Omolo praised Motorsport Uganda for bringing the event to the region. “It’s a privilege to host such competitions. They not only entertain but also boost local businesses,” he noted.

The one-hour show featured rally cars navigating specially designed routes within Katakwi, drawing cheers from the crowd. The motorsport display was among the highlights of President Museveni’s visit, adding excitement to the campaign trail.

State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang emphasized the importance of bringing such events closer to the people. “This is an opportunity for the people of Katakwi to experience a sport they’ve only seen on television. Now, they’ve seen it live,” he said.

Katakwi District Sports Officer Julius Otidi echoed the sentiment, crediting the event’s success to strong support from local leaders and the Ministry of Sports.

“Motorsport is the fastest-growing discipline in Uganda, attracting thousands of fans daily. It’s thrilling, adventurous, and promotes tourism while spreading economic benefits to every host community,” Otidi said. “Your presence and enthusiasm motivate us to keep pushing this sport forward.”