Kenya’s commitment to motorsport excellence was once again on full display as President William Ruto officially flagged off the 2025 WRC Safari Rally on Thursday.
The ceremony, held outside Nairobi’s City Hall, underscored the rally’s significance as a premier global motorsport event and a key pillar of Kenya’s sports tourism sector.
A Rally Like No Other
Speaking at the event, President Ruto hailed the Safari Rally as the most spectacular leg of the World Rally Championship (WRC) and a symbol of Kenya’s sporting legacy. He emphasized that the rally continues to capture worldwide attention, citing reports from WRC and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) that rank it among the most eagerly awaited rallies on the circuit.
“The Safari Rally is not just another race—it is a global spectacle. The Hell’s Gate power stage, in particular, stands out as one of the most-watched rally sections worldwide,” Ruto remarked.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s support for the event while urging greater private-sector participation to ensure its long-term sustainability.
Reducing Government Spending on Motorsport
In a significant policy shift, Ruto revealed plans to progressively reduce government spending on the Safari Rally, encouraging corporate sponsors to take a more prominent role.
“The future of this rally lies in the hands of private investors. I look forward to the day when the Government of Kenya will not need to fund it at all,” he stated.
He noted that public spending on the event had already been cut from KSh 2.1 billion in 2023 to KSh 980 million this year, signaling a move towards a self-sustaining model.
Nurturing Local Motorsport Talent
Beyond the rally itself, Ruto reiterated the government’s commitment to developing local motorsport talent. He announced support for the FIA’s Affordable Cross Car project, which aims to train young Kenyan drivers and mechanics.
To further boost local participation, he urged national motorsport bodies to collaborate with the Technical and Vocational Training Authority (TVETA) in manufacturing low-cost rally vehicles using FIA-approved blueprints.
Additionally, the President welcomed the FIA Helmet Wearing Programme, spearheaded by the Automobile Association of Kenya to promote road safety among boda boda riders. This initiative aligns with Kenya’s 2024-2028 National Road Safety Plan.
A Collaborative Effort
Ruto commended various government agencies, county governments, and corporate sponsors for working together to make the Safari Rally a success. He singled out the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports for leading cross-sector collaboration.
Further, he revealed that discussions were underway between WRC Safari Rally and Toyota Gazoo Racing to develop training programs for local drivers and mechanics, a move aimed at elevating Kenya’s presence in global motorsport.
“To our talented local drivers, led by the young and promising Dinashe Gatimu, know that the entire nation is behind you,” he said.
Honoring a Legacy
The event carried a sense of nostalgia as Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja reflected on the rally’s rich history.
“In 1963, the South Africa Safari Rally was flagged off from this very location,” Sakaja recalled, paying tribute to legendary drivers who had conquered the grueling race.
Sakaja also advocated for keeping the flag-off ceremony in Nairobi, citing its historical significance.
“This city is part of the Safari Rally’s DNA. We must ensure this legacy lives on,” he urged.
Excitement Builds for Rally Weekend
With the flag-off complete, motorsport fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling race weekend, with thousands expected to flock to Kasarani and Naivasha for the high-adrenaline action.
The Safari Rally remains a cornerstone of Kenya’s sporting culture, drawing global attention and solidifying the country’s reputation as a premier motorsport destination.
