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Once known for its grueling, unforgiving terrain that tested the world’s best rally drivers, Kenya’s Safari Rally has evolved into a symbol of the country’s growing influence in global motorsport. Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya believes that Kenya is no longer just a host nation—it is now Africa’s undisputed motorsport capital.
Speaking during the flag-off of this year’s World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally in Nairobi on Thursday, Mvurya emphasized the event’s profound impact on the country’s sporting culture and economy. “Motorsport in Kenya has come a long way, and today, we are not just participants—we are leaders in the sport on the continent,” he remarked.
Kenya’s motorsport revival gained momentum in 2021 when former President Uhuru Kenyatta secured a five-year deal with the International Automobile Federation (FIA) to reinstate the Safari Rally in the WRC calendar after a 19-year absence. Since then, the rally has captured global attention, attracting elite drivers, sponsors, and fans from across the world.
More than just a motorsport event, the Safari Rally has become a cultural and economic spectacle. The rally’s routes, which snake through picturesque yet treacherous landscapes, showcase Kenya’s diverse geography, from the scenic Great Rift Valley to the expansive savannahs. Mvurya noted that the event has helped put Kenya on the map as a premier destination for adventure sports tourism.
“The Safari Rally is not just about speed, it tells the story of our country, its natural beauty, and the resilience of its people,” he said.
The economic impact of the rally is equally significant. Local businesses, from hotels and tour operators to small-scale traders, benefit immensely from the influx of international visitors during the competition. Towns like Naivasha and Nakuru experience a surge in business, while Nairobi transforms into a hub of motorsport activity.
The government has also prioritized infrastructure development to support the rally, with improved road networks and enhanced safety measures benefiting not just the race but also local communities.
Mvurya also highlighted efforts to nurture local talent. This year, three female drivers received sponsorship to compete, a move aimed at increasing diversity and inclusion in a male-dominated sport.
“This is just the beginning. We want to create opportunities for more young people to view motorsport not just as entertainment, but as a profession,” Mvurya said.
Plans are underway to establish training programs and grassroots competitions to scout and develop the next generation of Kenyan rally drivers. By investing in talent, Kenya aims to produce homegrown champions who can compete on the global stage.
With preparations for the 2025 Safari Rally already in motion, Mvurya assured that Kenya is ready to host yet another world-class event. He called on Kenyans to embrace the rally as a national treasure and turn out in large numbers to support it.
“The Safari Rally is a legacy we must protect and grow. It is not just a race; it is part of our identity,” he said.
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