Preparations are complete for the 2025 Rhino Charge, scheduled to take place at Saimo Soi in Baringo North.
The event, now in its 36th edition, has drawn 64 participating vehicles, with teams set to navigate rugged terrain in support of conservation efforts.
Among this year’s participants is the EV Explorers team, marking the first time an electric vehicle has entered the competition.
The team is sponsored by M-PESA and aims to promote a more sustainable approach to motorsport.
Team leader Richard Kiplagat described the move as a shift toward lower-emission alternatives in recognition of ongoing environmental challenges.
Also participating is Car No. 44, led by Adil Khawaja, who emerged as the top fundraiser in the 2024 edition.
Last year, the AK 44 team raised Ksh 175 million, contributing to a record Ksh 325.8 million raised in total for the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust.
The funds go toward projects such as ecosystem preservation and the construction of protective electric fencing.
Notable returning teams for this year’s event include Car No. 5, led by Graham McKittrick; Car No. 4, last year’s winner, led by Mark Glen; and Car No. 43, led by Peter Kinyua.
Other entries include the Fat Rhinos, Smiling Shenzis, Moto Moto, BATUK, Team Huzi, and Zambarau Heels on the Wheel.
Patrick Garner, team lead of Car No. 49, said preparations were complete and expressed appreciation for the event’s broader environmental focus.
This year’s edition has received over Ksh 25.8 million in sponsorship support through Car No. 44 and the EV Explorers.
Safaricom PLC is providing network coverage for the event and has supported Rhino Charge for more than a decade, contributing to various conservation efforts across the country.
To date, Rhino Charge has raised more than Ksh 2.4 billion.
Funds have been used in the installation of electric fences in areas such as Mt. Kenya, the Aberdare Range, and Kakamega Forest, as well as initiatives aimed at protecting water towers and key natural habitats.
