Safaricom PLC has announced a KES 25.8 million sponsorship for the 2025 edition of the Rhino Charge, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to environmental conservation and technological innovation in support of sustainability. The highly anticipated event is slated for Saturday, 31st May in Baringo County.
The substantial funding marks a significant rise from last year’s KES 15 million contribution and will go towards supporting Car No. 44, Team AK44, led by Safaricom Chairman Adil Khawaja, and the pioneering EV Explorers, the first team to enter the Rhino Charge using an electric vehicle. This milestone underscores Safaricom’s efforts to promote clean energy solutions and sustainable motorsport in Kenya.
Beyond financial support, Safaricom will deploy connectivity infrastructure and create an experiential hub at the remote off-road venue. These enhancements aim to improve communication, engagement, and overall experience for both participants and spectators, showcasing the transformative power of technology even in rugged terrains.
“Rhino Charge aligns with our commitment to drive sustainability and environmental conservation. As part of celebrating our 25 years of transforming lives, we’re proud to deepen our involvement in conservation and sustainability initiatives by doubling our support for this year’s Rhino Charge competition,” said Dr. Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom. “Beyond funding, we’re also bringing connectivity and immersive experiences to the ground to enrich the event experience.”
Now in its 36th edition, the Rhino Charge is expected to host 65 teams, including top contenders such as Car No. 5 (Graham McKittrick), Car No. 4 (Mark Glen), Car No. 43 (Peter Kinyua), Moto Moto, Zambarau Heels on the Wheel, BATUK, Team Huzi, and the much-watched AK44.
Last year’s event, held in Torosei, Kajiado County, raised a record-breaking KES 325.8 million, with Car No. 44, also backed by Safaricom, raising KES 175 million, the highest amount ever by a single team. This legacy of excellence further cements Safaricom’s leadership in championing conservation.
Christian Lambrechts, Executive Director of Rhino Ark, praised Safaricom’s continued commitment: “Safaricom has been one of our most steadfast partners. Their increased investment this year reflects their unwavering dedication to conservation and the communities that depend on these critical ecosystems.”
To date, Safaricom has invested over KES 586 million in conservation initiatives through its foundations, contributing to reforestation, biodiversity protection, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and promotion of renewable energy. Its over-a-decade-long support for Rhino Charge has helped raise more than KES 2.4 billion, supporting landmark projects like electric fencing in Mt. Kenya, the Aberdares, and Kakamega Forest.
With this year’s enhanced involvement, Safaricom continues to lead by example, blending innovation with impact to protect Kenya’s natural heritage for generations to come.
Written By Rodney Mbua
