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Why Safari Rally is important for Kenya – Ruto

Ruto listed the many reasons that make it important, including showcasing Kenya as a sports hub.

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by BRIAN ORUTA

Realtime17 March 2025 - 08:30
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In Summary


  • The series will be held from March 20 - March 23, 2025 in Naivasha, Nakuru, and Nairobi counties and will feature two new stages. 
  • On Thursday, President William Ruto will flag off the WRS at 11:26 during a ceremonial start, KICC, Nairobi.
President William Ruto with Rally Driver Minesh Rathod at State House, Nairobi/PCS

President William Ruto on Monday explained why the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally is important for Kenya.

In a question and answer session with Rally Driver Minesh Rathod, Ruto listed the many reasons that make it important, including showcasing Kenya as a sports hub.

He said that it also gives Kenyans a chance to experience the skills of Kenyan drivers, unite and enjoy together.

The President added that it also allows tourism to flourish given the number of people who come to Kenya from neighbouring countries and other continents to participate.

“Rally is important because it showcases Kenya as a sporting nation and a chance for us Kenyans to enjoy and see the skills of our Kenyan drivers and also Kenyans uniting with their fellows for an entertainment weekend and tourists,” Ruto said.

He extended a warm welcome to all participants, including drivers and all the guests who will be in Naivasha.

Ruto said that it is a privilege for Kenya to host them and the WRC Safari Rally.

President William Ruto with Rally Driver Minesh Rathod at State House, Nairobi/PCS

The Head of State added that he will also be attending the adrenaline-filled event.

“To all the drivers, visitors and all guests from our region and world over, welcome to Naivasha, welcome to the World Safari Rally. We are privileged to host all of you," he said.

“To many Kenyans who will be spending this weekend in Naivasha, Karibuni sana (Welcome). All of us are happy to be part of this World Series. I will be there myself, tukutane Vasha (Let’s meet in Vasha)."

The series will be held from March 20 - March 23, 2025 in Naivasha, Nakuru, and Nairobi counties and will feature two new stages.

Organisers said Morendat Farm in Naivasha and Camp Moran have been included in the route of the competition with its shakedown stage moved from the traditional Loldia stage to Sleeping Warrior.

The iconic 32km Kedong stage has been reduced by half.

Spectators will have a full experience of viewing vehicles on location and will be able to see race cars throughout the route

On Thursday, President William Ruto will flag off the WRS at 11:26 during a ceremonial start, KICC, Nairobi.

It will be followed by Super Special Kasarani (4.76km) and Mzabibu 1 (8.15km) races.

On Friday, the action will focus on Naivasha with the race starting at Sleeping Warrior on Saturday.

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