Kenya boosts environmental sustainability efforts for WRC Safari Rally
Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 23.03.25. | 13:15
Key aspects of the plan include the collection and disposal of plastic waste, mapping wildlife corridors, and tree planting.
The government has strengthened its commitments to the environmental sustainability plan aimed at mitigating negative impacts on the environment during and after the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally.
Kenya Wildlife Research and Training Institute Director General, Dr. Patrick Omondi, emphasized that the government is focusing on environmental protection to ensure the sport is sustainable.
"As we enjoy the rally, it is also our responsibility to mitigate any environmental impacts, especially on the rally routes," he stated.
The environmental mitigation plan, established in 2021, aimed to address plastic waste management, map wildlife corridors for animal safety, and promote tree planting. Dr. Omondi revealed that, in collaboration with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), efforts have been made to meet all the plan’s obligations.
In addition to implementing motorsport conservation programs, the institute has created tree nurseries to rehabilitate rally routes, aligning with the government's initiative to increase forest cover.
"We have identified areas to plant indigenous trees, in line with government policy on forest cover, and we are appealing to corporate entities to join us in enhancing our indigenous tree planting efforts," he said.
Key aspects of the plan include the collection and disposal of plastic waste, mapping wildlife corridors, and tree planting.
He also highlighted the institute's role in hosting the largest motor rally service center in the world and providing hospitality services to rally support staff.
"We are now closely associated with the WRC rally, and we hope to receive infrastructure support, especially for constructing new hostels as part of Corporate Social Responsibility. These facilities would be a key asset for the safari rally organization, offering rally-branded lodging for participants," he remarked.
Dr. Omondi further mentioned that the institute is in discussions with the WRC about introducing short courses related to motorsport, with the possibility of launching them next year.
Kenya has established itself as a safari rally destination, with Naivasha hosting the championship for the fifth time since the event’s return in 2021. The hospitality sector has seen a significant business boom, with positive effects on other economic activities in the region.
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