Uganda's motocross Cranes chase gold in Namibia after bronze finish
85cc rider Ethan Musede in action during the Garuga race event
With just days to go before the FIM Africa Motocross of African Nations roars into action at Gallina Motocross Park, north of Windhoek, Namibia, on 29 and 30 August, Uganda has unleashed one of its strongest squads yet as the Motocross Cranes seek to improve on last year's bronze medal finish.
The continental championship will bring together Africa's leading motocross nations, with defending champions South Africa and hosts Namibia expected to set the pace. Uganda, however, arrives with renewed confidence after selecting a 30 rider team following a competitive national season.
The depth of Uganda's squad gives the team reason for optimism, with medal hopes spread across several classes.
MX50
Ismael Mpuga and Laboke Avisha are expected to lead Uganda's medal charge in the 50cc category. Harvey Kigundu will also be in the mix, although he faces a difficult task breaking into the top 15. Ronieta Sebuguzi would have added further strength to the class, but is only just back from injury; she is nonetheless expected to push for points.
MX65
The MX65 class promises another exciting contest, with Jude Musede, Jerome Mulumba and Eadric Musede expected to battle for honours. Jaysen Katek adds further depth to the team. Jude, in particular, has shown impressive pace throughout the national championship, although mechanical reliability remains a concern after several setbacks this season.
MX85
The 85cc category could provide Uganda with one of its strongest opportunities for team points. Jonathan Katende, Ethan Musede, Ramathan Mubiru, Rashid Mutebi and Ethan Katek will line up against some of Africa's best young riders. Katende brings valuable experience after two seasons in the class, while Ethan Musede has emerged as a serious challenger after repeatedly pushing his more experienced teammate during the national championship. Mutebi has also made significant progress, particularly on jumps, where his confidence and technique have improved markedly.
WMX
In the women's class, all eyes will be on national championship leader Jamaira Makumbi and Swansi Sambo. Makumbi has dominated the local class despite this being her first season in the category, and has gone a step further by securing a fully prepared spare motorcycle, giving her added security should mechanical problems strike during competition.
MX125
The 125cc class will feature Jerome Mubiru, Miguel Katende and Gift Sebuguzi, who has moved up into the category because of his age. Gift, who has benefited from specialised training under German professional coach Daniel Sedlak, is expected to spearhead Uganda's challenge, with Ali Kimera providing valuable support.
MX2
Uganda's MX2 hopes will rest on Milton Akaki and Michael Omodong. Akaki, who is based in Dubai and competes there regularly, has impressed with his smooth riding style, high pace and confidence over jumps. Omodong also has the speed to challenge for a strong result if his motorcycle remains reliable.
MX1
In the premier MX1 class, experienced riders Fatu Kigundu and Marcus Bukenya will carry Uganda's hopes. Kigundu's experience could prove vital, although mechanical problems have affected his season.
Masters and Veterans
Asaf Natan will compete alone in the Masters category, while Ismael Mukibi and Sebunya Rogers will represent Uganda in the Veterans class.
Building on past success
Uganda finished third overall in 2025 at Donnybrook, Zimbabwe, after taking silver in 2024. Individual riders also produced memorable performances, with Hellen Birungi Ainomugisha winning the MX50 Junior Ladies category and Jamaira Makumbi claiming MX65 Ladies honours.
Now, Uganda returns to the continental stage determined to turn consistency into greater success. With a deep squad, improved preparation and several riders capable of scoring heavily, the Motocross Cranes will be aiming not merely to participate in Namibia, but to fight their way back into the top two and mount a serious challenge for the African crown.
