Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has announced a sponsorship of KShs.7.1 million towards the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally Kenya 2025. This strategic partnership underscores KPLC’s dedication to supporting local sports and promoting sustainable energy solutions, aligning with the pillars of the recently launched Kenya Power Foundation.
Enhancing the Safari Rally Experience
The allocated sponsorship funds will be utilized to set up floodlights at the Safari Rally Service Park and to enhance power supply to the Morendat Safari Rally Village. These enhancements aim to improve electricity access for rally enthusiasts, ensuring an uninterrupted and electrifying experience throughout the event.
Dr. (Eng.) Joseph Siror, KPLC’s Managing Director and CEO, emphasized the company’s commitment to leveraging the unifying power of sports:
“Our participation in the WRC Safari Rally is a testament to our belief in the power of sports to unite people and drive positive change. We are proud to be associated with the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 as the official lighting partner.”
Strategic Infrastructure Developments
The Safari Rally Service Centre, located at the Wildlife Research and Training Institute (WRTI) in Naivasha, serves as the central hub where rally vehicles receive crucial maintenance and repairs between race stages. Enhanced lighting at the service centre will empower service teams to work uninterrupted throughout the rally period, thereby improving efficiency and safety.
Promoting E-Mobility and Sustainable Energy
Beyond infrastructure enhancements, KPLC will establish an exhibition pavilion at the Morendat Spectator Village. This pavilion aims to showcase KPLC’s latest advancements in promoting electric motorization (e-mobility) and electric cooking (e-cooking), highlighting the company’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
The pavilion will also serve as a free charging station for electric vehicles, motorbikes, and mobile phones, providing rally attendees with convenient access to essential services. Additionally, KPLC will offer customer education on various company products and services, fostering greater awareness and adoption of sustainable energy practices.
KPLC’s Investment in E-Mobility
KPLC’s involvement in the WRC Safari Rally aligns with its broader strategy to promote e-mobility in Kenya. The company has committed to investing up to KShs.258 million over the next three years to drive the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country.
Key Initiatives Include:
- EV Charging Infrastructure: KPLC has launched EV charging stations, including one at Stima Plaza, set up at a cost of KShs.6.5 million. This station features a 50 kW DC charger with a 1-hour charging time and a 22 kW AC charger with a 2-hour charging time. Plans are underway to install additional charging stations at various company offices nationwide.
- Electric Fleet Expansion: The company has introduced two heavy-duty electric vehicles for routine operations, purchased at a cost of KShs.18 million. There are plans to acquire an additional nine electric vehicles and 25 electric motorcycles by the end of December 2024, signaling a robust commitment to integrating e-mobility into its operations.
KPLC’s initiatives are part of a broader vision to lead Kenya’s transition to sustainable energy. By investing in e-mobility infrastructure and participating in high-profile events like the WRC Safari Rally, KPLC aims to:
- Raise Public Awareness: Educate the public on the benefits of e-mobility and e-cooking, fostering a culture of sustainability.
- Demonstrate Feasibility: Showcase the practicality and efficiency of electric vehicles and appliances in everyday life.
- Encourage Adoption: Provide the necessary infrastructure to support the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and sustainable energy solutions.
The 2025 WRC Safari Rally is expected to captivate a global audience of over 120 million viewers across 70 countries through 43 international media partners. KPLC’s involvement not only enhances the rally experience but also positions Kenya as a forward-thinking nation committed to sustainable development and technological innovation.
Kenya Power’s sponsorship of the WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2025 exemplifies the company’s dedication to supporting local sports and advancing sustainable energy solutions. Through strategic investments in infrastructure and e-mobility, KPLC is not only enhancing the rally experience but also paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future in Kenya.
