NGPU January 29, 2025

Preparation in Top Gear for the 2025 WRC Safari Rally

Written by Jeremy Ogolla

Preparations for the WRC Safari Rally Kenya, which will take place from March 20th to 23rd in Nakuru and Nairobi, are in top gear. The national and County Governments are calling for blending with local leadership to create an event with an international reach and local impact.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said the National and County governments have committed their full support to ensure the event’s success. The CS lauded the conducive environment, especially the breathtaking landscapes of Naivasha, which, coupled with its serenity and high hospitality facilities, make it the best place to hold the event.

He highlighted the achievements of the 2024 events while outlining the opportunities for this year, with Kenya emerging as the most viewed event on the WRC calendar.

Mvurya thanked the team for putting Kenya on the world map in the previous rally events, expressing optimism that the country is ready to host this year’s World Rally Championship with memorable experiences for fans and sponsors.

Nakuru Deputy Governor David Kones reiterated the need for all local leaders to be part of the technical team in planning the event, so they can register an impact once they conclude the event, especially opportunities for youths on matters of employment. He reiterated Governor Susan Kihika’s administration’s commitment to ensure the success of the event through collaboration for the socio-economic benefits of Nakuru residents.

To help nurture the talents of youths across the county, Sports CECM Josephine Achieng underscored the need for collaboration between the national and county Governments in encouraging youths to join TVETs so they can pursue motorsport courses.

WRC Safari Rally CEO Charles Gacheru said Morendat Farm in Naivasha and Camp Moran have been included in the route and the shakedown stage moved from the traditional Loldia stage to Sleeping Warrior.

Gacheru said they have mapped the roads in conjunction with the National Youth Service (NYS) who have scoped all roads and done BQs for roads and gabions.

To ensure a smooth safety plan, they have developed an app that will help to locate a direction where fire engines, ambulances, and policemen are for emergency purposes.

This year’s prize-giving ceremony of the event will be held at Hells Gate which can host over 50,000 people.