KCB Bank has reaffirmed its position as Kenya’s top sports sponsor by pledging KShs. 209 million to the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, marking its fifth consecutive year of sponsorship. The iconic motorsport event is set to take place from March 20 to 23, 2025, in Naivasha, bringing together top international and local rally drivers.
This sponsorship highlights KCB’s continued dedication to nurturing local talent, fostering national unity, and driving economic growth through sports. As part of its investment, the bank is backing four local rally drivers: Nikhil Sachania, Evans Kavisi, Tinashe Gatimu, and Karan Patel. Notably, Gatimu will be making her debut under the KCB Racing Team banner, while Kavisi returns to rallying after a year-long break.
Speaking at the official media launch in Nairobi, KCB Group CEO Paul Russo emphasized the broader impact of the Safari Rally beyond motorsports.
“The WRC Safari Rally is more than just a motorsport event. We see it as a platform to showcase Kenya’s potential on the global stage. At KCB, we believe in pushing boundaries, and through our support, we hope to enable Kenyan drivers to excel while supporting Kenya’s socioeconomic ambitions.”
Allocation of Sponsorship Funds
KShs. 100 million – To the Kenya Motorsport Federation for rally preparations and logistics.
KShs. 23 million – Direct support to the four sponsored rally drivers.
KShs. 86 million – For activations, branding, hospitality, and the Revvisha na KCB campaign, which aims to promote a savings culture among Kenyans.
Since the return of the WRC Safari Rally to Kenya in 2021, KCB has invested KShs. 800 million in the event and KShs. 2.3 billion in motorsports over the past 20 years, reinforcing its commitment to the sport and Kenya’s position as a premier motorsport destination.
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Hon. Salim Mvurya, praised KCB’s unwavering support, emphasizing the rally’s contribution to Kenya’s economy.
“The WRC Safari Rally has become a hallmark of Kenya’s global sporting calendar, attracting thousands of visitors and injecting billions into our economy. We commend KCB Bank for its steadfast commitment to not only this event but also the broader development of sports in Kenya. Their support ensures that local talents continue to shine on the global stage.
Beyond motorsports, KCB is integrating sustainability efforts into its sponsorship. The bank, which has adopted Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13 on Climate Action, is prioritizing environmental conservation by committing to plant 3,000 trees during the rally period.
Additionally, KCB will hold an art competition for primary schools in Nakuru County to foster creativity and environmental awareness among young learners.
On the social front, the bank is focusing on safety for both drivers and spectators, while also empowering small businesses, youth, and women. The selection of drivers reflects KCB’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in motorsports.
This year’s rally will begin with a ceremonial flag-off at Kasarani on March 20, followed by the Super Special Stage at KICC. The action will then shift to various challenging terrains in Naivasha over the next three days:
March 21 – Camp Moran and Morendat
March 22 – Sleeping Warrior, Elementaita, Soysambu, and Buffalo Mall
March 23 – Malewa, Oserian, Hell’s Gate, and Hippo Site, concluding with a prize-giving ceremony