Kenya Transfers Safari Rally Management to Private Sector

The Government of Kenya has established a partnership with the private sector to manage and fund the 6th Edition of the WRC Safari Rally in 2026. This marks a change in the event’s management and funding structure.

Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, announced the partnership in a press release on February 24, 2026. He stated the development aligns with President Ruto’s strategy to commercialize sports and increase private sector involvement in Kenya’s sports development.

New Management Framework

The private sector will now lead the coordination and execution of the WRC Safari Rally. A restructured administrative model will be implemented to facilitate this transition. The Government has already paid the promoter’s fee, ensuring a smooth transition and continued preparations.

Financial Implications

This partnership is anticipated to reduce the financial responsibility the Government has historically held in hosting the annual WRC event. The resulting resources will be allocated to the development and improvement of other sporting disciplines within the country.

Restructuring of Secretariat

The Chief Executive Officer and other officers currently working within the WRC Safari Rally Project Secretariat will be reassigned to the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports. They will fulfill the remaining terms of their existing contracts.

Readiness for the Event

Preparations for the 2026 WRC Safari Rally are complete, and Kenya is prepared to host the global motorsport event. An invitation has been extended to Kenyans and motorsport enthusiasts worldwide to attend the rally in Naivasha.