Hyundai racer Thierry Neuville had a conversation with President William Ruto during the flag-off event held at City Hall Way yesterday / TEDDY MULEI
President William Ruto has called on corporate entities to increase their involvement and contribute more towards financing upcoming iterations of the WRC Safari Rally, as the administration aims to lessen dependence on governmental resources.
At the ceremonial launch held on Thursday at City Hall Way, Ruto stressed that the sustained prosperity of this renowned event depends crucially on financial backing from the private sector.
"I want to express my gratitude to our corporate sponsors for their significant contribution to this year's Safari Rally. I urge additional private sector entities to join forces with the government in organizing premier events such as this one. The success and growth of the Safari Rally rely heavily on greater engagement from the private sector," stated Ruto.
The President emphasized the government's substantial budget reductions for the occasion, cutting spending from Sh2.1 billion in 2023 down to Sh980 million this year.
In 2023, Safari initially cost the Kenyan government KSh2.1 billion. I instructed the Ministry of Sports firmly to reduce this amount. I was pleased when in 2024, it decreased by KSh800 million to KSh1.3 billion, and I emphasized that it should be even lower for the Kenyan government this year. The expense has now dropped by an additional KSh320 million, making it total KSh980 million," he stated.
Ruto praised the Safari Rally Organizing Committee for obtaining more than 400 million shillings in sponsorships, highlighting the increasing attractiveness of the event to business enterprises.
"I would like to praise the WRC Safari Rally team for generating more than Sh400 million, either directly or indirectly, in support of this event," he stated.
I aim to motivate the private sector. I anticipate the day when this rally will require no funding from the Kenyan government, as the private sector will embrace it due to the promotional opportunities and visibility it offers. The government is prepared to step back and allow the private sector to excel and gain recognition through this significant occasion.
The Managing Director and CEO of Kenya Airways, Allan Kilavuka, has reiterated the airline's dedication to the Safari Rally, declaring their ongoing support as sponsors for another year, marking three years in succession.
"Kenya Airways is delighted to continue our association with the Safari Rally for another consecutive year. This time around, we are contributing ticket support worth KES 30 million specifically for the WRC events and an additional KES 20 million for the FIA Young Rally Champions, enabling them to compete here and develop their skills towards becoming future stars," stated Kilavuka.
Ruto guaranteed both the FIA and WRC of Kenya's steadfast support for the Safari Rally.
Since 1953, the Safari Rally has played an essential role in Kenya's sporting legacy and stands as a cornerstone of our sports tourism industry. Organizing this event—the sole African leg of the FIA WRC—provides mutual benefits for Kenya, the entire continent, and the FIA.
I want to reassure both the FIA and WRC that the Kenyan government continues to remain dedicated to supporting this event both presently and in the years ahead.
He also disclosed initiatives to foster upcoming talents in motor sports, committing governmental backing for the FIA’s cost-effective multi-car program.
We aim to generate additional chances for young Kenyans to engage in motor racing. Toward this objective, the Kenyan government will back the FIA’s cost-effective single-car initiative, designed to nurture motoring skills among youth in Kenya.
As the engines revved up in Naivasha, Ruto motivated Kenyans to join in substantial crowds and immerse themselves in the thrilling display.
Ensure safety and bring your loved ones to celebrate this significant event in Naivasha. The continuous rainfall is a boon, and we express our gratitude and look forward to the fact that the 2025 Safari Rally promises to be among the most challenging but also one of the most thrilling competitions.
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