Security top priority for 2025 WRC Safari Rally, assures Etyang

A multi-agency security meeting was held at the Simba Auditorium, KCB Towers, Upper Hill in Nairobi to ensure a smooth and secure event in the highly anticipated WRC Safari Rally 2025, set to take place from March 20th to 23rd in Naivasha,

The WRC Safari Rally will traverse KICC and Kasarani in Nairobi before proceeding to Hell’s Gate in Naivasha. It will attract both local and international spectators,

 The meeting was led by Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Stephen Etyang, who brought together representatives from the National Police Service (NPS), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), National Youth Service (NYS), and other security agencies.

Speaking at the event, Chief Security Officer Stephen Etyang underscored the importance of the Safari Rally to Kenya and the need for robust security measures.

 "This signifies a major milestone for the 2025 Safari Rally in Kenya. It showcases our unwavering dedication to supporting sports, particularly enhancing security and nurturing a culture of excellence. The collaboration among security agencies in preparation for the World Rally Championship in Naivasha is commendable," Etyang stated.

He further noted that the National Police Service, under Inspector General Douglas Kanja, has implemented stringent security measures to ensure law and order throughout the rally.

To manage traffic effectively, Eric Kiragu, the Staff Officer of Operations in the Traffic Department, announced key traffic measures to facilitate smooth movement during the rally and outlined several road restrictions and diversions:

•               No parking of lorries or trucks along the roads, especially at Kikopey and the Mai Mahiu-Naivasha route. Alternative parking areas will be provided.

•               Motorists heading towards Nyanza, Western Kenya, and North Rift are advised to use the Narok route after Mai Mahiu.

•               Those traveling from Central Kenya to Nakuru should divert at Thika, use the Safaricom Foundation route, and pass through Gakoe, Magumu, Njabini, Engineer, Ol Kalou, and Lanet.

•               No overlapping will be allowed along Nairobi-Naivasha-Nakuru and Mai Mahiu-Naivasha roads during the rally period.

•               Access to the Service Park will be restricted to rally drivers, officials, and authorized persons with valid entry passes.

•               A police helicopter will be on surveillance to ensure smooth traffic flow and coordinate with officers on the ground.

•               Additionally, vendors will not be allowed to operate along Moi South Lake Road from the Naivasha T-junction to Hell’s Gate.

Meanwhile, Timothy Keli, Director of Mobility Services at AA Kenya, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to road safety during the rally.

"We are partnering with WRC to celebrate motoring excellence in Kenya and ensure the safety of drivers, spectators, and everyone involved. We will provide public education, share information on road closures, and create awareness through digital channels," Keli said.

He urged spectators and motorists to observe traffic rules, avoid reckless driving, and ensure they designate sober drivers while traveling to Naivasha.

Etyang emphasized the prestige of the WRC Safari Rally, noting that it is one of only 13 global WRC events and the only one hosted in Africa.

 "The Safari Rally in Kenya is renowned not only for its challenging rally stages but also for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the exceptional hospitality of the Kenyan people. It presents a truly remarkable experience that seamlessly combines the thrill of motorsport with Kenya’s natural beauty," he said.

With heightened security, detailed traffic plans, and a commitment to safety, the WRC Safari Rally 2025 promises to be an exciting and well-organized event for both participants and spectators.