Kenya nears launch of rally driver training curriculum, DP Kindiki confirms

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has revealed that Kenya is finalizing the development of curriculum to train upcoming rally drivers in the country.

The move he said is aimed at encouraging and expanding participation of Kenyans in the sporting event in future.

Speaking during the official flagging off of the 2026 edition of the Safari Rally Kenya in Naivasha, the Deputy President said the curriculum is almost ready with Kenya already securing the vehicles to support the initiative.

“We want to create a pipeline for younger drivers so that more Kenyans can participate in rally sport in the future,” he adds, noting that the country hopes to see more local talent competing at higher levels of the sport.

Prof Kindiki reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the international motorsport event and encouraging greater participation from the private sector in its organisation and management.

He pointed out that Kenya spends close to Sh400 million in promoter and federation fees to host the rally each year which according to him needs to be expanded through partnerships with private investors.

“We will continue supporting this rally, but we are also encouraging the private sector to play a bigger role in the organisation and running of this global event,” Kindiki says.

Kindiki further assures rally fans and participants that adequate security has been deployed along rally routes to ensure safety during the event.

The flagging of marked the start of the third round of the World Rally Championship (WRC) and drawing excitement from residents, rally fans and visitors from across the region.

The ceremonial start takes place along Mau Mau Road near the Kenya Wildlife Training Institute, where hundreds of spectators gather to witness the rally cars begin their journey through the tough Kenyan terrain. Fans cheer loudly, wave flags and blow vuvuzelas as the colourful rally machines roar past, creating a festive atmosphere in the lakeside town.

Earlier in the day, excitement began with the shakedown at Nawisa, where rally drivers test their machines before the official stages begin. Unlike previous years when the session is restricted, the shakedown is opened to the public this year, giving residents and fans a rare opportunity to watch the powerful cars up close.

Despite light rain, crowds gather early to watch the cars speed through the muddy terrain.

Local traders also take advantage of the rally crowds. Michael Murage, a vendor selling caps and flags near Nawisa, says the rally boosts his business.

“I had good sales of caps and umbrellas because of the rain. However, I realised I did not have enough flags for visitors from neighbouring countries like Tanzania and Uganda,” he says.

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