This year’s Rhino Charge has raised a remarkable Sh173 million, the second highest amount of all time at a colourful event held on Saturday at Nkoteyia Community Conservancy in Samburu County
The highest fund-raiser was Adil Khawaja of Car 44 (AK44) with Sh60 million up from Sh21.7 million in last year’s action.
Peter Kinyua’s car No. 23 and Tim Carstens’ Car No. 63 were the second and third-highest fund-raisers respectively.
Speaking during the prize-giving ceremony, President William Ruto assured the organisers of the event of the government’s support for their efforts toward environmental conservation.
“Congratulations to the Rhino Ark Trust and all partners who have put this event together on matters pertaining to environmental conservation. Your partnership in fencing some of our very important assets around our water towers is something for which we are eternally grateful. We are now more determined than ever to ensure we live in an environmentally friendly world. I promise you our collaboration and commitment to environmental issues,” said the President.
Car No. 48 led by Mark Glen won the overall title ahead of Car No. 38 (Bundu Fundi) led by Sean Avery and Car No. 5 led by Graham McKittrick respectively.
The modified class category was won by Car No. 60 (Mbuzi Bandits) entered by Ajitesh Kapoor whereas the unmodified category was claimed by Car No.9 (Gumtree 4 x 4) led by John Bowden.
Tiger Line (Slater – Flower Watch) category was taken by Car No. 33 (Team Huzi) led by Jeremy Holley, with Car No. 22 (The smiling Shenzis) emerging as the winner of the Tiger Line (Oceanagri -Sandstorm) category. Victor Ludom Award went to Graham McKittrick of Car No.5
“This is one of the toughest courses I have experienced so far here in Kenya. However, I am thrilled by this noble cause spearheaded towards environmental conservation.
"I participate in the Rhino Charge because I firmly believe in the urgent need to protect our environment and preserve biodiversity.
"Each step I take in this challenge symbolizes a powerful gesture aimed at raising awareness about our critical role in safeguarding our planet’s natural treasures.
"Through my participation, I strive to inspire others to embrace their responsibility and take action in conserving our ecosystems, thus ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come,” said Mark Glen
During the prize-giving ceremony, Sh7 million was donated to benefit the Nkoteyia community, where the event was hosted. This was courtesy of Sh5 million from Rhino Ark Trust and Sh2 million from President Ruto.
This year’s Rhino Charge attracted a total of 52 cars and received a significant sponsorship of Sh15 million from Safaricom.