By Musa Kikuuno, Sports Writer, Busoga Times II Whatsapp 075632265
Musa Ssegaabwe, a name making waves in the Ugandan motorsport scene, is on a journey that few can relate to.
From humble beginnings in Luweero to becoming a rising star in rally racing, his story is one of passion, dedication, and raw talent.
I had the privilege of sitting down with the man of the moment to discuss his remarkable journey from co-driver to champion driver in just one year.
Thanks for joining us. For starters, who is Musa Ssegaabwe?
Thank you so much. By coincidence, we are all Musas, but I am Musa Ssegaabwe, born in Luweero and currently residing in Bulindo Kira. I started rally driving in 2024 in the CRC category, which is a category for beginners.
But before I became a driver, I was a co-driver or navigator. I was drawn to co-driving because I wanted to gain skills to eventually become a driver. Before I joined motorsport, I used to drive on the streets, and those who know me can testify to that.
You mentioned being a co-driver. What exactly does a co-driver do in a rally?
A co-driver, also known as a navigator, sits beside the driver and reads the map, guiding them on the route. They inform the driver about upcoming turns, bumps, and other obstacles on the track. It’s crucial for the driver to trust their co-driver’s directions to make it through the race successfully.
Speaking of co-drivers, you’ve partnered with Mathias Kiyenga. How has the partnership been, especially with the success you’ve had?
Mathias Kiyenga is my co-driver, and we make a perfect team. I’m a Muganda, and Mathias is a Musoga, and I always say, “Obusoga bulaire” (Busoga reigns). We’ve become brothers, and we do almost everything together, both good and bad. I really appreciate his support.
You switched from being a navigator to a driver and won the CRC in your first year. How did that feel?
It felt incredible, but I wasn’t completely new to racing. I had driven on the streets before, and in 2023, I became the champion in the Time Trial (TT) event while driving a Benz AMG GLE.
I was passionate about driving, and joining a more organised event like the CRC was a natural progression. I also used to drift my Lexus car, so when I transitioned to driving, it felt like I was finally where I belonged.
You just mentioned the transition from CRC to NRC. How are drivers promoted from CRC to NRC?
CRC is for beginners, and drivers come from events like autocross. I moved from autocross to CRC and then NRC. In CRC, we drive about 50% of what NRC drivers do.
For example, in the Mbarara rally, the NRC drivers covered seven stages, while CRC drivers only completed five.
You’ve only been in motorsport for a year. How would you describe your experience so far?
It’s been an amazing year! In 2024, I transitioned from co-driving to full-time driving, and I ended up winning two championship titles, including in the CRC and autocross. We completed all the events without major vehicle issues, which is every driver’s goal.
Let’s talk about the Mbarara circuit. You were penalised during stage one. What happened there?
We had prepared our vehicle well for Mbarara, and during the race, we were pushing high speeds, reaching 220 km/h. When we approached a sharp bend, we couldn’t slow down in time, and we went off track.
At that speed, it’s tough to navigate a corner, but with quick intervention, we managed to control the car. Despite the damage, our team did a fantastic job, and within 40 minutes, we were back on the track.
The rally continued, and by the end of the day, we were in 29th place out of 37 competitors. The next day, we pulled back to 8th, despite the 18-minute penalty.
40 minutes to get back on the track after such a big incident—that’s incredible. How did you switch your mindset after that?
The vehicle was back to normal, and I had the determination to finish what we started. We were there to compete, and despite the setbacks, we kept pushing.
It wasn’t easy, but we managed to finish strong, even with torn tires and an exhaust issue. That’s what rally racing is all about—overcoming challenges and finishing strong.
The penalty you received in Mbarara was for speeding, yet some people argue that you race too fast. What do you say to that?
People who criticise don’t understand the nature of the competition. Racing is about being faster than the rest. If you go slow, you’ll lose. That’s the reality of the sport.
Looking ahead, how prepared are you for the upcoming Masaka Rally in April?
We are preparing for Masaka, and despite the challenges we faced in Mbarara, we’ve learnt a lot. We’re currently working on our vehicle, and I’ll be heading to Poland to get new spare parts. Masaka will be a fresh challenge, and I’m determined to give my best.
You drive a Mitsubishi Evo 9. Is there a chance you might switch cars anytime soon?
We have no plans to switch cars for this year unless something significant comes up. The Evo 9 has been good to us, and we’re focusing on improving it.
What about your ultimate goal in this sport? Where do you see yourself in the future?
My goal is to become the NRC Champion of Uganda. Once I achieve that, I can consider retiring. I’m a huge Arsenal fan, and just like our team is striving for a Champions League win, I too aim to be at the top of Ugandan rally racing.
Many people would love to join motorsport. What advice would you give to someone interested in this sport?
Motorsport isn’t something you rush into. It requires preparation, patience, and a lot of learning. When I got my car, I didn’t immediately start racing.
I spent time training with it and learning the ins and outs. Anyone looking to join should be prepared to invest time, energy, and money into the sport.
Finally, Musa, you’ve had an incredible journey so far. What’s your message to your fans and supporters?
I want to thank my fans, my co-driver Mathias Kiyenga, my mechanics, my wife, and my family for their continued support. I also want to send my love to everyone at Segamu 14 Consults Limited. Keep supporting us, and we’ll keep making you proud.
Thank you for your time, Musa, and good luck in the Masaka Rally.
Thank you. It was my pleasure.
As Musa continues to break barriers in motorsport, there’s no telling just how far he’ll go. With his passion, determination, and remarkable teamwork, the future looks bright for this talented racer. Keep an eye on Musa Ssegaabwe—he’s just getting started.
