Safaricom Funds Rhino Charge 2026, Linking Forest Conservation, Motorsport and Digital Innovation
Kenya’s iconic Rhino Charge has received a KES 114 million boost from Safaricom PLC and the M-PESA Foundation, as preparations intensify for the 37th edition of the off-road conservation fundraiser set for May 30 in Samburu.
The funding will support both environmental restoration efforts and the operational demands of the rugged motorsport challenge, which raises money for protection of Kenya’s water towers through the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust.
Conservation focus: restoring critical ecosystems
Out of the total package, KES 94 million from the M-PESA Foundation will go toward large-scale conservation work. This includes fencing and protecting the Mount Elgon Forest (Suam Block), restoring the Mau Forest Complex across Narok, Kericho and Bomet counties, and supporting rehabilitation of the Mount Kenya forest ecosystem in Tharaka Nithi County.
These interventions continue to target Kenya’s key water catchment areas, which play a vital role in climate regulation, agriculture, and biodiversity conservation.
Event support blends racing with connectivity
Safaricom PLC’s KES 20 million contribution will fund event participation and communication infrastructure during the competition. Of this, KES 17 million will support three entries: Car No. 44 led by Adil Khawaja, the EV Explorers team led by Richard Kiplagat, and the Zambarau Heels on the Wheel all-women team led by Agnes Mwangi. The remaining KES 3 million will be used to enhance connectivity during the event.
A major feature of this year’s support is improved digital coverage in remote terrain, including 5G deployment to ensure seamless communication for participants navigating Samburu’s challenging landscape.
Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa said the investment reflects the company’s long-standing sustainability agenda:
“This year, we are proud to commit KES 114 million through the M-PESA Foundation and Safaricom. As a company, sustainability remains central to how we create long-term value for our customers, communities, and the environment. Our support for the Rhino Charge reflects our commitment to practical conservation efforts that protect Kenya’s natural heritage while driving innovation and resilience.”
Team sponsorship highlights EV and women participation
Part of the funding is directly allocated to competitors. Car No. 44 receives KES 15 million, while both the EV Explorers and Zambarau teams receive KES 1 million each to support participation.
The EV Explorers continue to stand out as the only electric vehicle team in the competition, using the event to test clean mobility in extreme off-road conditions. Team lead Richard Kiplagat said the support strengthens their resolve to perform better while advancing environmental innovation.
The Zambarau Heels on the Wheel team, an all-women entry, also welcomed the sponsorship, saying it reinforces both their competitiveness and their role in promoting inclusion in motorsport and conservation.
A growing conservation platform
Last year’s Rhino Charge in Baringo County raised KES 269.5 million, contributing to ongoing conservation of Kenya’s forests and water towers. Safaricom has supported the initiative for more than a decade, helping mobilize over KES 2.6 billion in conservation funding.
According to Rhino Ark, more than 650 kilometres of electric fencing have been constructed across key ecosystems, reducing human-wildlife conflict and protecting thousands of households living near forest edges.