The National Police Service has rolled out a robust security plan to ensure the smooth running of the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, set for March 20 -23, 2025.
Speaking during a joint security briefing at KCB Towers, Upper Hill, Assistant Inspector General Stephen Etyang emphasised that meticulous planning has gone into securing the event.
“NPS, under the leadership of Inspector General Douglas Kanja, has put in place stringent measures to guarantee law and order throughout the rally. Security personnel will be strategically deployed to ensure a seamless event,” Etyang stated.
He commended the collaboration between security agencies, stressing their joint efforts will reinforce safety across all rally venues.
“The coordination among various security agencies is commendable. Their combined expertise will ensure smooth operations throughout the rally period,” he added
Eric Kiragu, the Staff Officer in the Traffic Department, announced strict traffic measures along the rally route, particularly on the Naivasha-Nakuru highway.
“From March 20-23, parking of trucks and lorries along key sections, including Kikopey and Mai Mahiu, will be prohibited. Alternative parking areas will be provided,” Kiragu said.
Security along the rally route will be reinforced with over 1,000 traffic officers, with additional support from neighbouring counties like Kajiado and Kericho.
"Last year we had over 1000 traffic officers, and we are looking to have even more for this year. We will further have further help from Oloi tokitok and Kericho. The security personnel will also be manning the road a day before the event,” he said.
Officers will be deployed a day before the event to ensure early compliance with traffic regulations. “Police officers will be deployed in the entire route to ensure safety of the participants and other road users.”
Some roads will be temporarily closed, with motorists advised to use alternative routes“Motorists heading towards Nyanza, Western Kenya and North Rift are advised to use the Narok route after Mai Mahiu.”
“Motorists heading to Nakuru from Central Kenya are advised to divert at Thika then proceed on via the Safaricom Foundation route and pass through Gakoe, Magumu, Njabini, Engineer, Olkalou and Lanet as they proceed to their destination,” Kiragu noted.
A police helicopter will provide aerial surveillance, coordinating traffic flow and ensuring compliance with road rules.
Security will be heightened at crucial sites, including KICC, Moi Stadium, Kasarani, the Service Park, Hell's Gate and all designated spectator zones
