Nairobi, March 3- Five crews sponsored by KCB Bank Kenya are preparing to compete in the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya, with drivers expressing confidence ahead of one of Africa’s toughest motorsport events.
This year’s rally will be fully based in Naivasha, in line with FIA rules. Unlike previous years, there will be no long transfers to Nairobi. The action will focus on popular stages such as Kedong, Sleeping Warrior and Hell’s Gate, areas known for rough roads and unpredictable conditions.
Among the key Kenyan crews are Karan Patel and Tauseef Khan. Patel, an aircraft engineer and two-time African Rally Champion, is looking to bounce back after a challenging 2025 season. Their Safari Rally ended early due to engine trouble, and a later crash in Rwanda cost them a shot at another continental title. They finished the season strongly in Tanzania and are hoping for a better run this year.
Nikhil Sachania and Deep Patel also return with big ambitions. Sachania, Africa’s only paraplegic rally driver, competes using a car fitted with hand controls. The pair survived a serious crash at a previous Safari Rally but rebuilt and went on to win the FIA Africa Rally Championship WRC3 title in 2025. They now hope to complete a full season and fight for the overall championship.
The mother-daughter team of Tinashe and Caroline Gatimu will also be on the starting list. Tinashe, an Electrical and Electronics Engineering student, drives while her mother navigates. After years of using their own funds, sponsorship support has helped them upgrade their car and compete at a higher level.
From Uganda, Oscar Ntambi and Athuman Muhammad bring experience and determination, while Rwanda’s only female rally driver, Queen Kalimpinya, will make her Safari appearance alongside codriver Olivier Ngabo.
KCB has invested KSh 227 million in this year’s rally, including KSh 100 million for the event and KSh 28.5 million to support the five crews. The bank has also continued its environmental efforts, including tree planting and school outreach programmes.
Drivers say the Naivasha stages will test both skill and endurance, as the terrain is known to damage cars and push crews to their limits.
The 2026 Safari Rally is expected to draw strong local and international attention as teams battle for crucial championship points on one of the world’s most demanding rally stages.
