RHINO CHARGE 2024 – “HALF-CHARGE” CATEGORY INTRODUCED

(Posted 01st June 2024)

The annual Rhino Charge competition, renowned for its dedication to the conservation of Kenya’s mountain forests, has ended on a high note.

The results will be released tomorrow during the prize-giving day ceremony at Torosei in Kajiado West sub-county.

The organizing committee introduced the “Half-Charge” category this year. This innovation, which has attracted two competitor crews, underscores the event’s commitment to both tradition and progress in the realm of conservation efforts. These are Car 17 ‘Pumba Patrol’ and Car 58 Batuk.

Don White, Chairman of the Rhino Charge Committee and Clerk of the Course, said the entry of the two was significant as it was ‘all about encouraging new people to get into the event.’

Conducted in Torosei, Kajiado West sub-county, the official inspection process, known as ‘scrutineering,’ was concluded last evening, paving the way for today’s exhilarating display of off-road prowess across the rugged terrain of Torosei in the undulating hills of the lakes Magadi-Natron landscape.

Mr. White presided over the drivers’ briefing, emphasizing safety protocols and providing essential route maps to competitors. He briefed the crews and spectators on the use of drones at the venue, car stickers, speed limits and the sundowner. He asked all to be wary of heat strokes as they cause ‘irrational behaviours and aggressiveness’

Since dawn, 54 cars out of a maximum potential of 65 have been navigating the challenging landscape, each permitted a maximum of six occupants.

Kajiado County, this year’s host, boasts a rich natural heritage, epitomized by the world’s most studied elephants in the Amboseli ecosystem. The Rhino Charge not only celebrates this biodiversity but also actively contributes to its preservation.

Proceeds from the Rhino Charge directly fund conservation activities spearheaded by Rhino Ark, an organization committed to mitigating environmental impact. This year’s event, like its predecessors, adheres to strict guidelines to minimize ecological disruption. With a limit of 65 competition cars and a duration capped at 10 hours, the Rhino Charge ensures responsible stewardship of its surroundings. Moreover, by rotating venues annually, the event avoids cumulative environmental strain and distributes benefits equitably among host communities.

Over its 35-year history, the Rhino Charge has traversed various landscapes, with Kajiado hosting seven editions, including this year’s event in Torosei. Reflecting its national scope, other counties such as Samburu, Narok, Baringo, Isiolo, Marsabit, and Laikipia have also played host.

Challenges such as waste management in remote wilderness areas are met with dedication and innovation. The Rhino Charge Committee implements stringent waste disposal measures, including on-site sorting and daily collection, supported by a system of fines for non-compliance. Recycling initiatives further underscore the event’s commitment to sustainability.

Rhino Ark continues to make the Rhino Charge a climate-neutral endeavour since 2017, offsetting CO2 emissions through the purchase of carbon credits. Investments in projects like the Chyullu Hills initiative demonstrate a proactive approach to environmental stewardship.

This year’s Rhino Charge main events are as follows:
•   Today, Friday, 31st May – Scrutineering (inspection of the Competing Cars)
•   Tomorrow Saturday, 1st June – Rhino Charge
•   Sunday, 2nd June – Prize-giving

Kindly note that general information about the Rhino Charge is available online on the Rhino Charge website www.rhinocharge.co.ke. Digital contents about the Charge and Rhino Ark can be accessed at: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/2/folders/17zpkaom5x6WlMP7nDbIN2a86u3Sub1_l

The digital channels of the Rhino Charge and Rhino Ark are: