CFAO Mobility Kenya has announced a KES 48,535,200 sponsorship and development package to support the 2026 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally.
This marks another step in the company’s long-term commitment to Kenyan motorsport, bringing its total investment over the past six years to more than KES 153 million.
The partnership also reinforces Toyota’s legacy in rallying, with a record 12 WRC titles across different eras, including Group B and the current WRC Hybrid.
“Our investment goes beyond sponsorship. We are focused on nurturing young talent and promoting Kenya as a key player in global rallying,” said Arvinder Reel, Managing Director of CFAO Mobility Kenya, during the official cheque handover.
Investing in Youth and Grassroots Motorsport
As part of its initiatives, CFAO Mobility donated two FIA-approved Toyota Starlet rally cars to the Safari Rally Training School Project. Developed in collaboration with Kenyan engineers and built to FIA Rally 5 standards at a cost of KES 34.5 million, the cars were officially handed over to the President of Kenya at State House.
The company also unveiled a prototype Cross Car for junior drivers aged 12 to 17, built at KES 3.7 million to FIA standards. This first-of-its-kind initiative in Kenya provides a structured pathway for grassroots drivers to develop their skills and progress to professional rallying.
“We have partnered with South Africa’s Botterill Motor Sport to develop a rally training curriculum. Local drivers and navigators will attend training camps, and the curriculum will be handed over to the Safari Rally Secretariat to ensure the project continues after the rally,” Reel added.
Global Rally Stars and Fan Engagement
The initiative included an exclusive meet-and-greet with drivers from the Toyota Gazoo Racing Team (TGR). Attendees included Elfyn Evans, 2025 Safari Rally winner and current WRC championship leader; Samo Pajari; 24-year-old rising Kenyan talent; and legendary Juha Kankkunen, 1985 Safari Rally winner and Deputy Team Principal.
Principal Secretary for Sports, Mr. Elijah Mwangi, commended CFAO Mobility Kenya:
“Their investment in rally cars, training, and Kenya’s first affordable FIA Cross Car is vital for nurturing local talent and building technical capacity. Collaboration with TVETA can further enhance skills development and expand local production in the sector.”
Toyota Hilux: A Symbol of Performance and Reliability
Mr. Reel highlighted the Toyota Hilux’s role as the “double zero” and “triple zero” opening cars, emphasizing its quality, durability, and reliability.
Through its investment in sponsorship, youth programs, and technical innovation, CFAO Mobility Kenya is nurturing the next generation of rally champions, advancing motorsport technology, and elevating Kenya’s presence on the global rally stage.
Got a news tip? Please send us an email at info@nairobidaily.com
