Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya/X
The Government has unveiled a new partnership with the private sector ahead of the WRC Safari Rally 2026, marking a significant shift in how the global motorsport event will be delivered.
Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said the Government of Kenya has entered into a new strategic partnership with the private sector for the 6th Edition of the WRC Safari Rally 2026.
Mvurya described the development as a major policy milestone. He said the move represents a monumental realisation of the strategic vision of President William Ruto towards the full commercialisation of sports and sporting assets, as well as enhanced private-sector participation in the growth and development of Kenya’s sports ecosystem.
Under the new arrangement, the private sector will assume a central role in organising the event.
Mvurya said the partnership heralds a new era for motorsport in Kenya, and will significantly ease the Government’s annual financial commitment to the WRC event.
He added that the change will allow the Government to redirect funds to other areas.
According to Mvurya, the move will “free up substantial resources to be redirected toward the development and strengthening of other sporting disciplines across the country," CS Mvurya said.
The Cabinet Secretary said the private sector will take the lead and play a central role in the coordination and execution of the WRC Safari Rally 2026, supported by a restructured administrative framework aligned with the partnership model.
Mvurya confirmed that the Government has already met its key obligations. “The Government has already settled the promoter’s fee for the event, ensuring a smooth transition and uninterrupted preparations,” he said.
He sought to reassure Kenyans and stakeholders about the state of readiness for the rally. Mvurya said preparations have been finalised, adding that “our country is fully ready to host yet another thrilling global motorsport spectacle.”
The announcement also signals administrative changes within the WRC Safari Rally Project Secretariat. Mvurya said the CEO, gazetted and seconded officers, as well as those with ongoing contractual engagements, “will be reassigned back into the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports to serve until the conclusion of their respective contractual terms.”
Mvurya concluded by inviting both local and international fans to attend the event.
He called on Kenyans and motorsport enthusiasts from around the world to join the rally in Naivasha for what he termed a bigger, better, and more electrifying rally event that continues to redefine Kenya’s sporting excellence and global stature.
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