Safari debut beckons as Rwanda’s Queen Kalimpiya targets lasting impression

Rwanda's Queen Kalimpiya/ HANDOUT 

Rwandese rally driver Queen Kalimpiya is determined to leave a lasting impression when she makes her maiden appearance at the iconic WRC Safari Rally this weekend.

For the punishing Kenyan classic, Kalimpiya will be behind the wheel of a Subaru Impreza WRX STI GVB, a significant upgrade from the Subaru GC8 she normally campaigns.

‎According to Kalimpiya, the machine has undergone extensive testing across a variety of terrains to ensure it is battle-ready for the unforgiving Safari stages. ‎“The car feels great, and the team has worked extremely hard on the preparation,” she said. ‎“We believe it is ready for the challenge ahead.”

‎She also highlighted the magnitude of lining up at one of the world’s toughest rallies. ‎“Competing in the Safari Rally and other international events has always been a dream,” she said.

‎As a first-time entrant in the legendary rally, Kalimpiya’s immediate target is to guide the car safely through the gruelling stages while maintaining a competitive pace. ‎However, she admits that mounting a charge for silverware would make the experience even more special. ‎For the rally, Kalimpiya will partner with her long-time co-driver, Olivier Ngabo.

‎Ngabo is an experienced navigator, professional mechanic and mechanical engineering specialist with a strong background in transportation and car hire services. His credentials include being part of the 2025 Rwanda National Rally Championship-winning crew and earning the Best Co-driver of the Year award in 2019.

‎The duo have built a strong working relationship over the past three years. ‎Kalimpiya forms part of a four-driver squad backed by KCB Racing Team, alongside paraplegic driver Nikhil Sachania, two-time African champion Karan Patel, and the mother-daughter pairing of Tinashe and Caroline Gatimu.

‎Kalimpiya further expressed gratitude for the backing she has received from KCB Racing Team. ‎“Motorsport requires significant financial resources, and opportunities like this don’t come easily. Thanks to the KCB Racing Team, that dream is beginning to take shape.”

‎Beyond the stopwatch and stage times, Kalimpiya hopes her journey will inspire more young women to venture into spaces traditionally dominated by men.

‎“To every young girl who dreams of doing something different, your gender should never define the size of your dream,” she said.

‎“Believe in yourself, work hard, and don’t be afraid to pursue what excites you.”