The Uganda Cycling Association (UCA) has shattered tradition by announcing a pioneering three-year partnership with Moonlight Events, a move set to redefine East Africa’s cycling landscape. Starting in February 2025, this collaboration will deliver 12 local races and 3 international competitions, blending athletic excellence with cultural celebration.

Why This Partnership Is Historic:

• First Outsourced Management: UCA has never before entrusted event organization to an external firm. Moonlight Events will streamline logistics, sponsorships, and media coverage.
• Economic Catalyst: Races like the Pearl of Africa Cycling Tour (512 KM) are projected to attract 5,000+ international tourists, boosting local economies.
• Youth Development: Regional bike studies aim to identify 50+ under-18 talents for national training camps.

President Sam Mahaba Muwonge shared his excitement: “This partnership isn’t just about races—it’s about legacy. Moonlight Events’ expertise will let us focus on nurturing Uganda’s next cycling heroes.” Moonlight co-director Ismail Ssebayiga added, “We’re blending Ugandan grit with global standards. Expect fireworks!”

Breaking Down the 2025 Local Race Calendar

Let’s explore each event’s unique flavor, route challenges, and cultural significance:

1. Road Race Kickoff – February 23, 2025

• Distance: 87.5 KM
• Route: Kampala → Entebbe Highway (flat stretches with sudden climbs near Lake Victoria).

2. Time Trial Showdown – March 30, 2025

• Distance: 18 KM
• Route: Jinja Industrial Park Loop (smooth tarmac with sharp bends).

3. Team Time Trial – April 13, 2025

• Distance: 18 KM
• Route: Mabira Forest Circuit (shaded trails with steep inclines).

4. Labour Day Race – May 1, 2025

• Distance: 105 KM
• Theme: Honors Uganda’s workforce with a route passing farms, factories, and markets.
• Community Impact: 10% of ticket sales fund vocational training for youth.

5. Pearl of Africa Cycling Tour – May 28, 2025

• Distance: 512 KM over 4 days
• Route Stages:
  • Day 1: Kampala → Fort Portal (rolling hills).
  • Day 2: Fort Portal → Kasese (Queen Elizabeth National Park views).
  • Day 3: Kasese → Kabale (brutal Rwenzori Mountain climbs).
  • Day 4: Kabale → Lake Bunyonyi (recovery ride with lakeside finish).
• Global Appeal: Named “Africa’s Toughest Tour” by Cycling Weekly.

6. Martyrs Day Race – June 1, 2025

• Distance: 100 KM
• Cultural Link: Finishes at Namugongo Shrine, honoring Uganda’s 19th-century martyrs.

7. National Championships – June 22, 2025

• Distance: 120 KM
• Prize: Winners earn automatic qualification for the UCI World Championships.

8. Regional Bike Studies (July–November 2025)

• Central Region (July 29): Kampala’s Kyambogo University circuit tests speed.
• Eastern Region (Sept 14): Mbale’s Mount Elgon slopes challenge endurance.
• Northern Region (Oct 19): Gulu’s dusty trails mimic Paris-Roubaix conditions.

9. Environmental Road Race – November 19, 2025

• Distance: 120 KM

10. Cycle Uganda Grand Finale – December 28, 2025

• Distance: 200 KM over two days
• Route: Mbarara → Lake Mburo (Day 1); Lake Mburo → Masaka (Day 2).
• Festivities: Live music by Eddy Kenzo and a gourmet “Taste of Uganda” food fair.

International Competitions: Uganda’s Global Pedal Power

Ugandan cyclists will compete in three marquee events abroad:

1. SCODA Tour Mauritius – July 26, 2025

• Distance: 320 KM over 5 stages

2. Tour of Mauritius – August 2025

• Follow-Up: A 450 KM race circling the island’s volcanic highlands.

3. UCI World Championships – September 21–28, 2025

• Location: Kigali, Rwanda
• Historic Context: First World Championships in East Africa; a trial run for Uganda’s 2030 bid.

The Bigger Picture: Cycling’s Role in Uganda’s Future

Beyond medals, this partnership drives societal change:

1. Health Revolution
   • Fitness Campaigns: Free cycling clinics in schools combat obesity.
2. Gender Equality
   • Women’s Participation: 40% of 2025 racers are female, up from 15% in 2015.
3. Infrastructure Upgrades
   • New Bike Lanes: Kampala and Jinja launch 50 KM of dedicated paths by 2026.
   • Safety Gear: Helmets and reflectors distributed to 10,000 schoolkids.

President Muwonge’s Vision: “By 2030, we’ll have a Ugandan in the Tour de France. This partnership is our launchpad.”

The Economic Ripple Effect: How Cycling Boosts Uganda’s Economy

The Uganda Cycling Association’s 2025 race series serves as a major economic force beyond just athletic competition. The Ministry of Tourism in Uganda projects international events such as the Pearl of Africa Cycling Tour will create tourism revenues amounting to millions. Along race routes businesses such as hotels, restaurants and transport services are gearing up to handle increased demand.

 Key Economic Drivers:

• Job Creation: Over 500 temporary roles (marshals, medics, vendors) will be filled locally.
• Sponsorship Deals: Brands like RwandAir and Airtel Uganda have pledged $500,000+ in combined support.
• Media Rights: Broadcast deals with SuperSport and NBS Sport will showcase Uganda’s landscapes to 10M+ viewers.

Training Like a Pro: Inside Uganda’s Cycling Camps

Uganda’s cyclists are ramping up preparations for 2025. Derrick Kisenyi, 2024 National Champion, shared his regimen: “I train six days a week—hill repeats on Tuesdays, endurance rides on weekends.” Coaches emphasize:

• Altitude Training: Fort Portal’s high-elevation routes build lung capacity.
• Nutrition: Meals rich in matooke (plantains), beans, and leafy greens fuel long rides.
• Mental Toughness: Meditation sessions help riders like Grace Nakimera stay focused during 100KM+ races.

Green Rides: Sustainability at the Heart of 2025 Races

The Uganda Cycling Association and Moonlight Events are committed to eco-friendly practices:

1. Zero-Waste Zones: Reusable cups and biodegradable banners at aid stations.
2. Eco-Education: Riders will host school workshops on climate action.

Community Cornerstone: How Locals Can Engage

Beyond spectating, Ugandans can dive into the action:

• Volunteer Squads: Join route marshals or medical teams
• Artisan Markets: Sell crafts at race village pop-ups

Pedal Into Uganda’s Cycling Future

The Uganda Cycling Association’s groundbreaking partnership with Moonlight Events isn’t just a calendar of races—it’s a movement. From the adrenaline-pumping Road Race Kickoff in February to the star-studded Cycle Uganda Grand Finale in December, 2025 promises to be a year where sport, culture, and progress collide.

Why This Matters:

• For Athletes: A platform to shine locally and globally, with pathways to UCI World Championships and beyond.
• For Uganda: A chance to boost tourism, empower youth, and cement its reputation as Africa’s rising cycling hub.
• For Fans: Unmatched access to heart-stopping races, eco-initiatives, and community-driven events.

President Sam Mahaba Muwonge’s vision— “legacy over trophies”—resonates in every kilometer raced, every tree planted, and every young talent discovered. As Uganda gears up for this historic season, the world watches. Will you?

Take Action Today: Uganda Cycling Association

• Spectate: Grab your tickets and cheer for Uganda’s cycling heroes.
• Ride: Join a local club and train for future races.
• Support: Sponsor a rider or volunteer to be part of the revolution.

The starting gun fires in February 2025. Will you be there when history pedals past?