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For the first time in history, Africa’s top rally driver will be crowned on Tanzanian soil. In 2025, the African Rally Championship will culminate at the Mkwawa Rally of Tanzania, a milestone moment not just for the sport but for the country.
Tanzania’s flag was proudly raised by the Minister of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Prof. Paramagamba Kabudi, signaling the official launch of the championship. The ceremony drew thousands of rally enthusiasts, including residents of Morogoro, who packed the grounds of Mkwawa Group of Companies to witness the announcement.
“This is a great honor for Tanzania. Hosting the African Rally Championship here, through our own Mkwawa Rally team, shows how far we’ve come in the global sporting arena,” said Ahmed Huwel, founder and director of the Mkwawa Rally Team of Tanzania. He emphasized the crucial role played by government and private sponsors in making the event possible, noting, “Without our partners, this wouldn’t have been achievable.”
The rally promises a fierce contest, featuring some of Africa’s most talented drivers. Uganda’s Yassin Nasser will battle Kenya’s Samman Vohra, while reigning champion Manveer Birdi faces stiff competition from his brother Randeep Singh, both driving Mitsubishi Evo 09s.
Tanzania’s own Ahmed Huwel leading the Team of Tanzania, behind the wheel of a Toyota Yaris R5, has vowed to reclaim the crown. Other challengers include Gurpal Sandhu (Mitsubishi Evo 10), Shehzad Munge (Mitsubishi Evo), Samir Nahdi Shanto (Ford Proto), Altafu Mungu (Ford Fiesta R5), and Dharam Pandya (Subaru VAB).
Adding to the excitement, international competitors from Uganda, Kenya, India, and Burundi will join the 25-plus participants, underlining the championship’s growing prestige.
Adding to the excitement, international competitors from Uganda, Kenya, India, and Burundi will join the 25-plus participants, underlining the championship’s growing prestige.
For Morogoro, the stakes go far beyond racing. Regional Commissioner Adam Malima described hosting the event as a transformative moment: “This is a big step for our region. It’s not just about sport — it’s about putting Morogoro on the continental map.”
“This rally is more than speed. It’s a gateway for the world to see our forests, our landscapes, and the spirit of our people. Local businesses, from shopkeepers to motorcycle taxis, will feel the impact, and our youth will gain opportunities,” he said.
Tanzania’s beauty — from its national parks to its mountain ranges — forms a dramatic backdrop for the high-octane competition.
Officials from the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) highlighted how the event not only fuels tourism but also strengthens conservation efforts: “This enhances the value of our natural reserves and draws more visitors eager to experience Tanzania’s unmatched environment,” they noted.
As the engines rev up for 2025, the Mkwawa Rally of Tanzania is more than a sporting event. It is a national celebration, blending adrenaline with culture, and putting Tanzania firmly in the driver’s seat of African motorsport.