Hospitality sector players in Naivasha are urging the government to negotiate an extension of the country’s hosting rights for the WRC Safari Rally beyond 2026, citing the event’s strong economic impact on the region.
The annual motorsport spectacle, which returned to the global rally calendar in 2021 after a 19-year absence, has significantly boosted tourism and business activity in the lakeside town. During the four-day event, hotels, restaurants, transport operators and small-scale traders record a surge in customers as thousands of local and international visitors flock to the area.
The rally is part of the World Rally Championship and is currently held in Naivasha and its surrounding areas. The existing agreement between the rally promoter and the Kenyan government is set to expire in 2026 after authorities negotiated a one-year extension to the original five-year deal that began in 2021.
Hospitality operators say the rally has transformed Naivasha into a vibrant tourism and commercial hub each year.
John Mburu, General Manager of Hylise Hotel, said the event has led to sustained high occupancy and even prompted expansion plans for some establishments.
“We have had a full house for the last ten days. Most guests come specifically for the rally, and the business it brings benefits everyone—from hotels and transporters to local traders,” Mburu said.
Industry players argue that extending Kenya’s hosting rights would help sustain the economic momentum created by the rally, while also strengthening the country’s profile as a global motorsport and tourism destination.
They are now calling on the government to begin early negotiations with the organisers of the World Rally Championship to ensure the iconic Safari Rally remains on the international calendar beyond 2026.
