The government has rolled out an elaborate security and logistics plan to guarantee safety and smooth operations during the upcoming World Rally Championship Safari Rally Kenya 2026.
Authorities say the globally renowned rally, scheduled for March 12–15 in Naivasha, Nakuru County, is expected to attract more than 10,000 regional visitors, alongside international drivers, teams and motorsport fans.
Kenya is hosting the third round of the FIA World Rally Championship calendar.
In a statement, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration said it has activated a multi-agency coordination framework to ensure the safety of rally drivers, team officials, spectators and residents during the event.
“The government has laid out a comprehensive plan to guarantee safety and ensure that all participants and spectators fully enjoy the Safari Rally Kenya 2026,” the ministry said.
The security arrangement brings together several government agencies, including the National Police Service, National Government Administration Officers, National Transport and Safety Authority and the Kenya National Highways Authority.
These institutions will work closely with county authorities and rally organisers to coordinate security, manage traffic and support operations throughout the four-day event.
More than 1,000 police officers drawn from various formations will be deployed across rally routes, spectator zones and major access roads around Naivasha to maintain security, manage crowds and guide motorists.
“Over 1,000 officers will be strategically stationed along rally routes, spectator areas and key transport corridors to maintain order, manage crowds and facilitate smooth traffic flow during the competition,” the ministry said.
Authorities have also warned motorists and members of the public to expect temporary traffic changes, including diversions along designated rally routes and surrounding access corridors.
Motorists travelling along the Nairobi–Naivasha highway corridor without a specific business in Naivasha have been advised to consider alternative routes to ease congestion during the rally period.
Suggested alternative routes include the Nairobi–Limuru–Flyover–Njabini–Ol Kalou–Ndondori–Lanet–Nakuru road and the Nairobi–Mai Mahiu–Narok–Nakuru–Western Kenya corridor.
Spectators attending the rally have also been urged to observe strict safety guidelines.
“Fans are advised to watch the rally only from designated spectator zones, follow instructions issued by security officers and event marshals, and avoid accessing restricted rally tracks or operational areas,” the ministry said.
The government further called on residents, visitors and rally enthusiasts to cooperate with authorities to ensure a safe and successful event.
“We urge rally fans, residents and visitors to cooperate with security officers and rally officials, adhere to traffic guidelines and observe safety instructions to guarantee the successful hosting of Safari Rally Kenya,” the ministry added.
The Safari Rally remains one of the most iconic and challenging motorsport events in the world, famed for its rugged terrain and unpredictable conditions that test both drivers and machines.
This year’s competition marks the 74th edition of the rally, which began in 1953 as the East Africa Coronation Rally before joining the global championship in 1973 and later adopting the name Safari Rally.
For the first time since its return to the WRC calendar in 2021, the rally will not start in the Kenyan capital Nairobi.
The change follows new regulations introduced by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile that have shortened the rally week from five days to four.
From the gruelling Kenyan terrain to the roar of world-class rally machines, the event is expected to once again showcase the country’s unique motorsport heritage while attracting thousands of local and international fans to Naivasha.
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