In 1999, speedster Charles Muhangi became the first Ugandan and black African to win the African Rally Championship.
Muhangi thrilled as he cherished speed to the brim, inspiring budding drivers in a sport that is still loved by many across the divide.
Besides motor-rallying, Muhangi was also a successful businessman with a good fortune.
He breathed his last at Buziga home rather mysteriously in 2018 and to-date, no satisfactory answer has been fronted to his death.
Patience Mbabazi hangi with the award
Patience Mbabazi shows off the award
Six years after his demise, Muhangi was feted and celebrated with a lifetime achievers’ award during the Fortebet Real Stars monthly awards for September 2024.
Muhangi’s special accolade was received by the widow, Ms Patience Mbabazi at Lazo bar and restaurant, Kololo on Tuesday, October 8, 2024.
Ms. Patience Mbabazi speaks
“It is humbling to be called concerning your friend, comrade, the African Rally champion” Mbabazi sighed.
“I remember Rally was his DNA, it was his language. He left a legacy not only in Uganda, but, the entire Africa. I challenge you as young people, leave a legacy” she added.
Funeral service for the late Charles Muhangi
Funeral service for the late Charles Muhangi
Patience Mbabazi speaks during the funeral service for the late Charles Muhangi
Muhangi was born on 20th September 1957 in Bumbeire, Igara county, Bushenyi district.
He famously cruised to many podium finishes in his favourite Subaru Impreza 555 that he branded ‘Ekitaguriro’.
But his first major break was when he won his first major title; the National Rally Championship in 1998.
He went on to win the Africa Rally Championship (ARC) in 1999 –the first Ugandan driver and black African to claim the title.
According to Ian Katusiime, Muhangi, however, quit regular racing in 2003 when a resolution by FIA; a global organisation that promotes safety in motorsport, banned turbo charged cars in regional championship rallies.
L-R: Herbert Assimwe, Patience Mbabazi Muhangi, Herbert Matovu and Isaac Ariho show off their plaques.
Other sports personalities recognized:
Herbert Assimwe (football), Isaac Ariho (woodball) and Herbert Matovu (boxing) were also recognized with plaques and cash each.
Wakiso Giants and Buweekula forward Assimwe came top ahead of KCCA’s Saidi Mayanja and NEC midfielder Enock Ssebaggala.
Prisons’ woodball player Iriho toppled Alfred Nsabimana and Joyce Nalubega.
Boxer Matovu won ahead of two other nominees; Owen Kibira and Ukasha Matovu.
The crowning ceremony was also graced by Uganda Police football club chairman Timothy Halango.
All winners with the officials
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