NAIROBI, Kenya — The Ministry of Interior and National Administration has warned members of the public against operating drones in restricted areas during the ongoing WRC Safari Rally Kenya.
In a safety notice issued on Friday, the ministry said drone operations will not be allowed in designated zones around rally stages and spectator areas in Naivasha and surrounding locations hosting the competition.
“The use of drones is NOT permitted in designated areas within Naivasha and surrounding areas during the World Rally Championship Safari Rally Kenya 2026,” the ministry said in the notice.
Spectator Safety Advisory
Authorities also issued a detailed advisory outlining safety guidelines for spectators attending the high-speed motorsport event.
Fans have been urged to watch the race only from designated spectator zones and strictly follow instructions from event marshals and security officers.
The advisory also encourages attendees to arrive early since access roads will be closed before rally stages begin.
Spectators were further advised to stand well away from rally roads, park vehicles only in approved parking areas, and carry essential supplies such as water, sun protection, and comfortable footwear.
Authorities also reminded fans to dispose of waste responsibly and respect local communities and private property while attending the rally.
Prohibited Activities
The safety notice outlined several activities that are strictly prohibited during the rally in order to prevent accidents.
These include standing on rally roads, crossing the road while a rally stage is live, entering restricted areas, and blocking access routes reserved for emergency vehicles.
Spectators have also been warned against using unauthorized drones, engaging in flash photography near rally cars, lighting fires, damaging the environment, or engaging in disorderly behaviour.
Traffic Advisory
The safety notice comes a day after the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) warned motorists to expect heavy traffic during the rally, which runs from March 12 to March 15.
KeNHA Director General Luka Kimeli urged drivers to comply with all traffic and road safety rules during the event.
The authority also warned that truck drivers who park in undesignated areas along the highway risk immediate arrest.
To help ease congestion, KeNHA recommended several alternative routes for motorists travelling between Nairobi and Nakuru.
One of the suggested options is the Scenic Route, which runs from Nairobi through Flyover (Magumu), Njambini, Ol Kalou, and Dundori before connecting to Lanet.
Another option is the Adventure Route, which passes through Rironi, Naivasha, Engineer, Ol Kalou, and Dundori before joining the highway at Lanet.
Motorists can also use the Thika Trail route via Thika, Magumu, Ol Kalou, and Dundori, or the Ngong–Suswa–Narok–Nakuru corridor.
