Koelel Forces Academy from Gilgil has emerged as the winner of the inaugural KCB WRC Green Debate, marking a significant milestone in youth-led environmental advocacy during the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya.
The competition brought together 32 schools from the Nairobi and Nakuru regions, offering a platform for students to engage in discussions on critical sustainability and social issues.
Debate Series Highlights Climate and Governance Issues
The finals, held at Naivasha Girls High School, featured intense and thought-provoking debates on topics including corporate governance, clean energy, sustainable finance, environmental conservation, and social responsibility.
Koelel’s debate patron, Mrs. Margaret Gakii, lauded the initiative for its focus on climate issues, noting that it challenged students to think critically about the future and their role in environmental protection.
“Debate Circle hosts debates throughout the year, but this series was unique because it focused specifically on sustainability and climate issues. It challenged our students to think critically about the future and the role young people can play in protecting the environment,” she said.
Top Schools Awarded for Sustainability Initiatives
Murang’a High School finished as the first runners-up, while Utumishi Boys Academy secured third place.
The winning schools received cash prizes to support sustainability initiatives led by their debate clubs. Koelel was awarded KShs. 90,000, Murang’a received KShs. 60,000, and Utumishi took home KShs. 30,000.
The funds are expected to support projects such as tree planting drives, environmental awareness campaigns, waste management programmes, and community clean-up activities. All participating schools also received trophies, KCB-branded merchandise, and certificates in recognition of their efforts.
KCB Underscores Commitment to Sustainability
Speaking during the event, KCB Naivasha Branch Manager Zacharia Njeru emphasized the bank’s commitment to embedding sustainability in its operations and broader strategy.
“At KCB, sustainability is embedded in our strategy. We are investing in green financing, supporting clean energy solutions, and advancing sustainable finance. However, policies and financing alone are not enough. We also need innovative ideas and young leaders who are ready to champion sustainable development,” he said.
The Green Debate was organized in partnership with Debate Circle and KenGen, reflecting a shared commitment to promoting environmental responsibility among young people.
Safari Rally Sustainability Efforts Gain Momentum
Since the return of the Safari Rally to Kenya in 2021, KCB has integrated sustainability initiatives into the global motorsport event. These include planting over 3,000 trees in collaboration with local schools and implementing structured waste management programmes.
During the 2026 rally, more than two tonnes of mixed waste were collected across key rally stages, including Kedong, Sleeping Warrior, and Elementaita. The waste is currently being sorted and recycled through partnerships with environmental organizations.
Global Push for Greener Motorsport
In line with the WRC Promoter Beyond initiative, KCB continues to leverage the global platform of the Safari Rally to promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices.
The initiative brings together key stakeholders, including the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), event organizers, teams, drivers, fans, suppliers, broadcasters, and local governments, to drive collective action toward reducing the environmental impact of motorsport while advancing sustainability goals.