Safari Rally fully aligned with WRC sustainability agenda-Gacheru

The partnership was inked on Wednesday in Nairobi, where KenGen revealed plans to integrate its advanced geothermal energy solutions into the world-renowned rally, reinforcing Kenya’s reputation as a leader in sustainable energy innovation.

Gacheru praised the alliance, noting that it represents a significant step toward aligning motorsport with environmental conservation.

“This is more than a sponsorship—it is a commitment to sustainability. KenGen has gone beyond financial support to provide machinery, engineers, and expertise to ensure the rally operates in an eco-friendly manner,” said Gacheru.

‎‎He also hinted at future editions incorporating more hybrid rally cars to further reduce the event’s carbon footprint.

‎‎A key highlight of the alliance was the introduction of the KenGen Geothermal Stage, which will be set against the backdrop of Africa’s largest geothermal power hub in Olkaria, Naivasha.

The initiative aims to demonstrate how clean energy and motorsport can seamlessly coexist, making the Safari Rally championship, which is set for March 20-23, a pioneer in sustainable racing.

‎‎KenGen Managing Director and CEO Peter Njenga emphasized the company’s commitment to merging sports and energy innovation to promote sustainability.

“Today, we make a bold statement of intent. Our partnership with WRC signifies how global sports and energy innovation can converge to redefine sustainability in high-performance environments. At KenGen, we are not just the leading electricity producer in Eastern Africa; we are at the forefront of the clean energy revolution,” said Njenga.

‎‎KenGen’s collaboration with WRC Safari Rally will focus on four key sustainability pillars: Green Energy in Action (establishing geothermal-powered EV charging stations, solar-powered event infrastructure, and energy-efficient rally village setups), ‎‎Championing Diversity in Motorsport (supporting top female rally driver Pauline Shegu with KSh 500,000 to promote gender inclusion in a traditionally male-dominated sport.)

‎‎Others are Environmental Conservation (planting 10,000 tree seedlings in the Hell’s Gate area to offset carbon emissions), Net Zero Motorsport (aiming to power future Safari Rallies entirely on clean energy, including plans to electrify the entire service park in the coming years.)

‎‎‎‎Renowned rally driver and media personality Pauline Chegu expressed her gratitude for the support, highlighting the evolving role of motorsport in environmental responsibility.

“Motorsport has long been associated with speed, adrenaline, and grit. But today, it must also become synonymous with sustainability, conservation, and forward-thinking solutions,” said Chegu.

‎‎She emphasized that while the WRC Safari Rally is a symbol of Kenya’s resilience and pride, it is equally important to protect the country’s natural resources.

‎‎"Our forests, wildlife, and clean air are treasures that we must safeguard for future generations. KenGen, with its commitment to clean energy and environmental conservation, is the perfect partner in this journey," she added.

‎‎With the 2025 WRC Safari Rally fast approaching, motorsport fans can look forward to an event that not only delivers adrenaline-pumping action but also reinforces Kenya’s leadership in green energy solutions.