By Jeff Kizzilah Digital Editor
Safaricom PLC and the M-PESA Foundation have injected KES 114 million into the 37th edition of the Rhino Charge Challenge, reinforcing efforts to conserve Kenya’s critical water towers and protect vulnerable ecosystems across the country.
The 2026 Rhino Charge Challenge, scheduled for Saturday, May 30 in Samburu County, will benefit from the funding through forest fencing, ecosystem restoration, team sponsorships, and advanced connectivity support aimed at enhancing the overall event experience.
Out of the total contribution, the M-PESA Foundation has committed KES 94 million towards Rhino Ark conservation activities, including the fencing and protection of the Mount Elgon Forest (Suam Block) and the restoration of the Mau Forest Complex spanning Narok, Kericho, and Bomet counties.
The funding will also support the Mount Kenya Forest Rehabilitation and Protection Project in Tharaka Nithi County, underscoring the Foundation’s commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s vital ecosystems and water catchment areas.
Safaricom PLC has separately contributed KES 20 million, with KES 17 million allocated to support three competing teams and KES 3 million earmarked for network connectivity during the event.
Among the beneficiaries are Car No. 44 led by Adil Khawaja, the EV Explorers team headed by Richard Kiplagat, and the all-ladies team, Zambarau Heels on the Wheel led by Agnes Mwangi.
Speaking during the cheque handover ceremony at Safaricom Headquarters in Nairobi, Safaricom CEO reaffirmed the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.
“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,” said Ndegwa.
Safaricom will deploy 5G connectivity during the event to improve communication and engagement for participants and spectators, showcasing how technology can transform experiences even in remote and rugged environments.
Under the sponsorship arrangement, Car No. 44 will receive KES 15 million, while EV Explorers and Zambarau Heels on the Wheel will each receive KES 1 million to facilitate their participation.
This year’s Rhino Charge is expected to attract over 55 entries, including defending champions Team Huzi (Car No. 33) and the all-ladies Team Zambarau.
Speaking on behalf of the Zambarau Heels on the Wheel team, welcomed the support, describing it as a major boost for women participating in conservation-focused motorsport.
“This support not only empowers our team but also reinforces our shared mission of advancing conservation and protecting Kenya’s natural heritage through the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust,” she said.
Last year’s Rhino Charge event held in Saimo Soi, Baringo County, raised KES 269.5 million towards environmental conservation. Adil Khawaja emerged as the top fundraiser for the third consecutive year after raising KES 139.8 million.
EV Explorers team lead said Safaricom’s backing would motivate the electric vehicle team to improve on last year’s performance and champion sustainable mobility solutions.
“As the only EV team in the competition, we are highly motivated not only to complete the challenge but also to emerge among the best as we champion the future of electric mobility and environmental conservation,” he stated.
Safaricom has supported the Rhino Charge initiative for more than a decade, helping raise over KES 2.6 billion for conservation projects. The funds have supported electric fencing initiatives in Mt. Kenya, Aberdares, Kakamega Forest, and other critical ecosystems.
To date, the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust has constructed over 650 kilometres of electric fencing, helping protect more than 80,000 families from human-wildlife conflict.
Rhino Ark Executive Director praised the long-standing partnership with Safaricom and the M-PESA Foundation.
“This year’s preparations for the Rhino Charge Challenge are in full swing, and we expect a total of 65 entries to take part in the challenge and fundraising effort in support of this noble cause of environmental conservation and the protection of Kenya’s vital water catchment towers,” he said.
The Rhino Charge is an annual off-road 4×4 competition that raises funds for the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust, an environmental conservation organization dedicated to protecting Kenya’s mountain forests and water towers.
