Nairobi, Kenya- Speaking at the flag-off ceremony outside Nairobi’s City Hall, Ruto announced a major financial shift: the government’s expenditure on the event has dropped from Sh2.1 billion in 2023 to Sh980 million this year.
The ultimate goal? A fully self-sustaining Safari Rally.
Ruto said while the Safari Rally is a national treasure, it shouldn’t be a government-funded one forever.
I’m looking forward to the day when the WRC Safari Rally will cost zero for the government of Kenya and the private sector will take it up- President Ruto #ViralVideos
“The future of Safari Rally depends on private sector participation. I am looking forward to the day this will cost zero for the Government of Kenya,” he stated
This push aligns with broader efforts to reduce reliance on public funds while ensuring the event remains a world-class motorsport spectacle.
The Safari Rally is more than just a race—it’s a massive tourism draw, a showcase of Kenyan resilience, and, as Ruto noted, one of the most anticipated motorsport events globally.
With over 100,000 fans expected to flood Naivasha and millions tuning in worldwide, the rally presents a lucrative opportunity for corporate sponsorships. The President’s challenge to businesses? Invest in Kenya’s motorsport legacy.
President Ruto flags off the 2025 WRC Safari Rally at City Hall Way as drivers set off for a four-day race in Naivasha
Fueling Motorsport Talent—Locally
Beyond funding, Ruto emphasized that Kenya is ready to develop its own motorsport talent.
He announced that discussions are underway between WRC Safari Rally organizers and Toyota Gazoo Racing to train Kenyan drivers and mechanics.
This initiative, paired with the government’s backing of the FIA Affordable Cross Car project, aims to equip young Kenyan racers with locally manufactured, FIA-approved rally cars.
Ruto urged local federations to collaborate with the Technical and Vocational Training Authority (TVETA) to make this vision a reality.
“To our local drivers led by the 21-year-old Dinashe Gatimu, the entire country is rallying behind you,” Ruto added, acknowledging the rising stars eager to put Kenya on the global rally map.
In 2023, the WRC Safari Rally cost the Kenyan government Ksh2.1 billion. I’m happy that this year, the cost has further decreased to Ksh908 million – President Ruto
Revving Up Safety Beyond the Tracks
The rally isn’t just about high-speed thrills—it’s also an opportunity to promote road safety.
Ruto welcomed the FIA Helmet Wearing Programme, rolled out by the Automobile Association of Kenya, to enhance safety for boda boda riders.
This initiative aligns with Kenya’s 2024-2028 National Road Safety Plan, reinforcing the country’s commitment to reducing road fatalities.
The President also commended various government agencies, county governments, and corporate sponsors for executing a seamless rally experience.
He specifically lauded the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports for spearheading cross-sector collaboration.
With a growing focus on sustainability, local talent development, and road safety, Kenya’s most thrilling motorsport event is shifting gears.
For now, all eyes turn to Kasarani and Naivasha, where the action will unfold.
But beyond the dust and the roar of engines, the real race is just beginning—the race to secure a future where the Safari Rally thrives without government funding.
