KCB has pumped KES 195 million into next month’s Safari Rally event.
KCB says its investment will cement its “position as one of the biggest sponsors of sports in East Africa”. The money includes KES 100 million to support preparations and logistics for the March 28-31 event in Naivasha. An additional KES 16.6 million will sponsor two Kenyan drivers – reigning African champion Karan Patel and Nikhil Sachania.
KCB Group CEO Paul Russo said the bank was “proud to be part of the region’s motorsport story” since first backing the Safari Rally in 2003. “It is exciting to see our sponsorship has resulted in the growth of motorsport in the region, opening up the sport to hundreds of young talent,” he added.
Russo said KCB aimed to “continue entrenching the sustainability agenda into motorsports”, by linking it to climate action and environmental conservation. The bank plans to plant 300,000 trees around the rally route, and promote recycling and waste management during the event.
Cabinet Secretary for Sports Ababu Namwamba said KCB had “once again showcased that together, we can host such a world-class event”. He said the return of the rally after nearly two decades would offer Kenyans “an exhilarating experience like never before”.
As many as 50 drivers are expected including reigning world champion Sebastien Ogier of France and 22-year-old Finnish sensation Kalle Rovanperä. Toyota’s Rovanperä, who won the 2022 edition, will be seeking to emulate compatriot Ari Vatanen’s record of three consecutive Safari triumphs between 1981 and 1983.
To celebrate the rally’s return, KCB has also launched a customer promotion with up to KES 500,000 in weekly prizes. The bank said it aimed to “drive positive change and make meaningful impact” in local communities.
