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Vendors of different items made money during the January Mbarara Rally. They are getting ready ahead of POAUR
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By Our Reporter
The business community in and around Mbarara City is already feeling the economic buzz as rally fans flock to western Uganda for the highly anticipated Pearl of Africa Uganda Rally (POAUR) 2025.
This is the first time Mbarara is hosting the POAUR, a major motorsport event that had previously been held in Kayunga and Mukono since its inception in 1996.
Vendors of different items made money during the January Mbarara Rally. They are getting ready ahead of POAUR
With the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) choosing Mbarara as this year’s host city, the decision has come with significant economic benefits for local businesses. Hoteliers, transport operators, and vendors across various sectors are bracing themselves for a surge in customers and profits.
The excitement follows closely after the Mbarara City rally held in January, which saw food, drinks, and accommodation sold out. By Monday, most hotels in the city center had been fully booked, with fans making early reservations to avoid missing out.
Vendors of different items made money during the January Mbarara Rally
Richard Byaruhanga, a hotel attendant in Mbarara City, admitted he was initially unaware of the upcoming event but noticed a sharp increase in bookings.
"In one day, we had three different people each booking for more than ten guests. As we speak, we’re fully booked with no rooms left. It’s a big moment for us—I didn’t even realize it was such a major event," said Byaruhanga.
Robert Mwesigwa Rukaari, one of the event’s sponsors, encouraged Mbarara residents to take advantage of the opportunity to earn income.
"Our people should understand that these events are not only for entertainment but also a source of income. Vendors, transport providers, and anyone with a business mindset should get ready to make money. This event has attracted foreigners who are ready to spend on good service," Mwesigwa said.
Vendors of different items made money during the January Mbarara Rally. They are getting ready again
Martin Mugabe, a sugarcane vendor, shared his experience of making profits during previous rally events.
"It’s a small business, but I make some money every time there’s a rally. I sell all my sugarcane, so I’ll do the same again this time," Mugabe said.
On rally days, beverages such as beer, soda, and water, alongside roasted meat (muchomo) and other food items, typically sell out, bringing in significant profits for vendors.
Vendors of different items made money during the January Mbarara Rally
The week-long event, which has attracted 52 rally crews, began on Monday with various preliminary activities. The main competition will take place on Friday at Mwesigwa Resorts and in Sanga, culminating in the final action on Saturday.
Torch Media Africa
