CFAO Mobility Kenya has committed KES 48,535,200 to support the 2026 World Rally Championship Safari Rally, reinforcing its long-term role in developing motorsport in Kenya.
The investment marks CFAO’s continued support for local rallying, with total contributions surpassing KES 153 million over the past six years.
The sponsorship also highlights Toyota’s legacy in the WRC, where it has won 12 championship titles across different eras, including Group B and the current Hybrid category.
Speaking during the cheque handover ceremony, CFAO Mobility Kenya Managing Director Arvinder Reel said the company’s support goes beyond just sponsorship.
“Our commitment goes beyond sponsorship we are investing in the growth of motorsports and will continue to champion initiatives that nurture young talent and elevate Kenya’s rally standing on the global stage,” Reel said.
Part of the investment is dedicated to the Safari Rally Training School, with two FIA-approved Toyota Starlets developed in collaboration with Kenyan engineers. The cars, built to Rally 5 international standards at a cost of KES 34.5 million, were officially presented to the President at State House on Monday.
CFAO has also introduced a prototype Cross Car for local junior drivers aged 12 to 17. Built at KES 3.7 million, the car aims to create a structured pathway for emerging rally talent in Kenya, giving young drivers hands-on experience from grassroots level.
Reel added that CFAO has partnered with South Africa’s Botterill Motor Sport to develop a rally training curriculum, which will be used at training camps for local drivers and navigators.
Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi praised CFAO Mobility for its contribution to motorsport development.
“I would like to commend CFAO Mobility Kenya for their investment in strengthening grassroots motorsport in the country… As we move forward, I encourage collaboration with TVETA so this initiative can help build skills and expand local production capacity within the sector,” he said.
Among the drivers present were current WRC leader Elfyn Evans, recent Rally Sweden winner Samo Pajari, and 24-year-old rising Kenyan star. Legendary driver Juha Kankkunen, winner of the 1985 Safari Rally, also attended.
Reel highlighted the consistent role of the Toyota Hilux as the “double zero” and “triple zero” opening cars since the rally’s return to Kenya, saying it reflects the Hilux’s reliability and durability.
“CFAO Mobility remains committed to investing in motorsport while spearheading the growth of mobility solutions across the country,” he added.
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