KCB Bank Kenya, KCB Foundation, and National Bank of Kenya (NBK) have joined in co-sponsoring the 2025 Rhino Charge, to be hosted this weekend in Baringo County, with a total sponsorship of KShs. 11 million for two vehicles. The co-sponsorship is a continuation of the Bank’s passion for both motorsport and eco-friendly mobility in Kenya.
Of the total amount, KShs. 10 million will be given to vehicle no. 44 (AK44) piloted by veteran off-roader Adil Khawaja. Yet another KShs. 1 million contribution from the KCB Foundation will support the EV Explorers, the first electric vehicle to take part in the Rhino Charge, driven by Nick Foley.
Rosalind Gichuru, KCB Group Director of Marketing and Communications, highlighted the broader impact of the sponsorship:
“Our support for the Rhino Charge reflects our belief in the power of sport to drive both innovation and impact. By investing in events like these, we not only champion motorsports in Kenya but also contribute to critical environmental conservation efforts, aligning with our broader commitment to sustainability.”
This year’s event will be hosted by at least 65 teams from across the nation, including motor sport legends such as Ian Duncan, Eddy Verbeek, Paul Foley, Gurmeet Mehta, Graham McKittrick, Manee Choda, Mahesh Bhatti, and Aadil Vaiani.
Teams will be scrutineered on the Friday, May 30, before the main competition on Saturday, May 31, and drivers will receive their competition maps as well. The prize-giving ceremony will then be held on June 1, announcing the first three winners and the total amount raised.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to KCB for its unwavering commitment and continued partnership in supporting this noble initiative. Their invaluable contribution plays a pivotal role in advancing our environmental conservation efforts, which are essential in fostering sustainable practices and safeguarding our natural resources for future generations. We have a strong lineup for the event so, we are ready to go out there and compete,” said driver Adil Khawaja.
Rhino Charge is a special annual 4×4 off-road competition in Kenya, with the competitors having to navigate 13 checkpoints over 100 km² of tough terrain in 10 hours. It’s a real test of endurance, strategy, and sensitivity to the environment.
“At NBK, we are honored to be part of the 2025 Rhino Charge, a bold initiative that speaks to our values of resilience, environmental stewardship, and community impact.. We have proudly sponsored this event for over five years, underscoring our dedication to sustainable initiatives that protect Kenya’s natural heritage,” said George Odhiambo, Managing Director, National Bank of Kenya.
The competition is to the benefit of the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust, a charity committed to the conservation and protection of Kenya’s critical mountain ecosystems, otherwise known as the country’s “Water Towers.”
