The government is on the verge of extending the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally from a three-day sporting event to five days.
President William Ruto while speaking in Nairobi during the flagging off of the 2024 WRC Safari Rally, directed the Sports Ministry to make the proposal a reality.
The head of state urged the sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba to work with the International Automobile Federation (FIA) and extend the duration of the event by two days.
“I think it is time to consider the request by drivers to return the rally to the five days it used to be,” commented the head of state.
The President noted the government was keen on using the opportunities brought about by the WRC Safari Rally to drive economic growth.
According to Ruto, the extensive worldwide media coverage of the rally would enhance the country's global image and reputation.
He noted that the event would not only attract tourists to the country but also investors, injecting billions of shillings into the economy and expanding opportunities for many people.
“This will provide a major boost to our economy, increasing incomes for local businesses, and direct and indirect jobs, and attracting local and foreign tourism investment," Ruto stated.
The head of state noted the government had made adequate preparations to ensure the event which begins on March 28 and ends on March 31 was a success.
Ruto further called on Kenyans to come out in large numbers and watch the event, noting there was guaranteed security during the event.
“I take this opportunity to assure every participant that every measure has been taken by relevant government agencies to ensure that the Safari rally is safe and secure,” the head of state assured Kenyans.
Several foreign participants have already arrived in Kenya for the high-interest event.
