Safaricom, in a significant move to boost the upcoming 2024 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, has pledged a KES 36 million sponsorship. The rally, scheduled for 28th to 31st March in Naivasha, Nakuru County, coincides with the Easter holiday, promising an exhilarating event for motorsport fans.
As the official technology partner, Safaricom’s sponsorship aims to enhance the rally experience through advanced technological support. The company plans to deploy five Cell on Wheels (COW) units to ensure uninterrupted and high-speed 4G network connectivity throughout the event. This setup includes two COWs at Hell’s Gate, two at Soysambu, and one at the Kedong stage, specifically designed to bolster network coverage in key viewing areas.
In addition to network support, Safaricom will establish two fully equipped media centres at the Service Park and Hell’s Gate stage, offering internet connectivity to facilitate real-time coverage of the rally.
Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing Safaricom’s commitment to nurturing talent. This commitment is underscored by a KES 5 million portion of the sponsorship dedicated to supporting young Kenyan driver Hamza Anwar. Anwar, competing in the WRC-3 category with a Rally 3 Ford Fiesta, has shown promise in his motorsport career.
To further showcase its innovative solutions, Safaricom will equip Anwar’s rally car with a telematic gadget. This Smart Vehicle Tracking System demonstrates Safaricom’s IoT-powered Telematics solution, providing valuable insights into vehicle performance and driver behavior, highlighting the company’s advancements in fleet management solutions.
Safaricom’s strategic collaborations extend to supporting French rally driver Adrien Fourmaux in partnership with the M-Sport Ford team. This includes branding Fourmaux’s car and kits with M-PESA Global International Money Transfer service logos, broadening the visibility of Safaricom’s services.
The 2024 Safari Rally marks a return to its traditional Easter holiday schedule for the first time in 26 years. Safaricom promises an exclusive experience for its customers along the rally route, including special WRC Easter bundle offers.
Charles Gacheru, CEO of WRC Safari Rally, praised Safaricom’s longstanding support, highlighting the company’s role in nurturing talent and promoting sportsmanship. He invited rally enthusiasts to witness the exciting competition and support the Kenyan team.
This year’s rally has attracted top competitors, including WRC points leader Kalle Rovanpera and past champions, showcasing the event’s prestige and global appeal. The Kenyan team, led by five-time Safari Rally winner Carl ‘Flash’ Tundo, is set to make a significant impact, supported by a strong lineup of local talent.
