President William Ruto has urged corporate sponsors to step up and take a bigger role in funding future editions of the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, as the government looks to reduce reliance on public funds.
Speaking at the official flag-off on City Hall Way on Thursday, Ruto emphasised that the long-term success of the iconic event hinges on private sector investment.
“I wish to thank our corporate sponsors for their invaluable contribution to this year’s Safari Rally. I encourage more private sector players to partner with the government in hosting world-class events like this. The future of Safari Rally depends on increased private sector involvement,” Ruto said.
The President highlighted the government’s aggressive budget cuts for the event, slashing expenditure from Sh2.1 billion in 2023 to Sh980 million this year.
“Safari initially cost the government of Kenya Sh2.1 billion in 2023. I gave firm instructions to the Ministry of Sports to cut the figure down. I am happy that in 2024, it came down by Sh800m to Sh1.3 billion and I insisted that this year it must cost less for the government of Kenya. It came down by another Sh320 million and it will cost Sh980 million,” he added.
Ruto commended the Safari Rally Organizing Committee for securing over Sh400 million in sponsorships, underscoring the event’s growing appeal to corporate brands.
“I want to commend the WRC Safari Rally team for raising over Sh400 million both directly and indirectly in support of this event,” he noted.
“I want to encourage the private sector. I am looking forward to the day this Rally will cost zero for the government of Kenya and the private sector will take it up because they need the advertising and profiling. The government is ready to cede ground and let the private sector shine in the glory of this historic event.”
Kenya Airways managing director and CEO Allan Kilavuka reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to the Safari Rally, announcing its continued sponsorship for a third consecutive year.
“Kenya Airways is proud to be associated with the Safari Rally for the third year running. We sponsor this event in the form of tickets up to the tune of Sh30 million for the WRC function and Sh20 million for the FIA young rally champions to be able to race here and grow into champions,” Kilavuka said.
Ruto reassured the FIA and WRC of Kenya’s unwavering support for the Safari Rally.
“Since 1953, the Safari Rally has been a key part of Kenya’s sporting heritage and a pillar of our sports tourism. Hosting this event, the only FIA WRC leg in Africa is a win-win partnership for Kenya, the continent and FIA.”
“I assure both the FIA and WRC that the government of Kenya remains committed to supporting this event now and in the future.”
He further announced plans to nurture young motorsport talent, pledging government support for the FIA’s affordable cross-car project.
“We also want to create more opportunities for young Kenyans to participate in motorsport. To this end, the government of Kenya will support the FIA’s affordable cross car project which aims to develop motorsport talent in Kenya.”
As the engines roar to life in Naivasha, Ruto encouraged Kenyans to come out in large numbers and soak in the adrenaline-fueled spectacle.
“Stay safe, bring your families to enjoy this momentous occasion in Naivasha. The ongoing rains are a blessing and we appreciate and anticipate that the 2025 Safari Rally will be one of the toughest yet one of the most exciting events ever.”
by TEDDY MULEI
