Saimo Soi in Baringo North, once a hotspot for insecurity and bandit attacks, is now a symbol of resilience, peace, and transformation following the successful hosting of the 2025 Rhino Charge. The world-renowned off-road motorsport event took place on May 31st, drawing 64 elite teams and hundreds of spectators from across Kenya and beyond. For the first time in years, the dust rising from Baringo’s rugged valleys signalled not danger, but celebration.
This turnaround comes two years after the launch of Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU), a multi-agency security operation initiated in February 2023. Led by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the Kenya Police Service, OMU aimed to restore peace in parts of Baringo, Turkana, West Pokot, Samburu, Laikipia, and Elgeyo Marakwet counties that had been declared “disturbed and dangerous.” Today, locals say those efforts are bearing fruit.
“This is more than just a race. It’s a sign that we are safe again,” said Joshua Changwony, a resident of Ngaratuko village. Once cut off by fear and conflict, the region is now hosting international visitors, boosting local morale and economy. Changwony, like many others, hopes this marks the beginning of lasting development and regular tourism.
The Rhino Charge is more than a motorsport event it raises vital funds for environmental conservation. Since its inception, the event has raised over KSh 2.4 billion, supporting electric fencing projects, forest restoration, mountain bongo rewilding, and eco-tourism trails in Kenya’s mountain ecosystems.
Christian Lambrechts, Executive Director of Rhino Ark, praised the local community and security teams for ensuring a peaceful event. He noted that the success of Rhino Charge in Baringo is a strong example of how peace and conservation can go hand in hand.
During the prize-giving ceremony, Brigadier Joel Arimi, Commander of OMU, applauded the region’s transformation. “Hosting a world-class event in a former conflict zone is no ordinary achievement,” he said. “This is a clear reflection of the progress we have made together.”
As headlights faded into the night and cheers echoed through the valleys, Baringo North celebrated more than a race, it celebrated a new chapter of peace, pride, and possibility.
