(Posted 01st June 2025)
The 36th edition of the Rhino Charge has ended last evening in Saimo-Soi in Baringo North on a high note with significant retirements during the adrenaline-packed car competition and a couple of incidents.
By 5:30 PM, the challenging terrain—a mix of rocky outcrops, steep valleys, and dense thickets—had taken its toll. Early reports confirmed four medical emergencies, none of them life-threatening, and at least one vehicle rolling over during the course. While it remains unclear if the car rejoined the competition, a total of 13 vehicles had retired by the official close of the event due to mechanical failures or the extreme difficulty of the course. The Classic Charge category concluded at 3:30 PM, rewarding endurance and teamwork.
At dawn, all the 64 competition vehicles were flagged off across 13 rugged checkpoints carved into some of Kenya’s most unforgiving and breathtaking terrain. With clear skies above and the sun rising over escarpments and thickets, the cars were released at 7:30 AM, watched by an enthusiastic crowd of over 3,500 spectators, conservationists, and motorsport aficionados.
Vehicles were flagged off starting at 7:30 AM, with the ceremonial flag-off at the Solex checkpoint led by Baringo Governor H.E. Benjamin Cheboi and motorsport legend Jean Todt, former President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety. Their presence underscored the event’s dual significance: a test of extreme driving skill and a powerful force for conservation.
“Baringo is more than just a stunning landscape—it’s a haven for biodiversity, adventure, and cultural heritage,” Governor Cheboi stated. “Hosting Rhino Charge here not only showcases our natural wonders but also reinforces our commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism.”
All 64 vehicles successfully passed scrutineering yesterday, a rare feat for an event of this scale, with no disqualifications. While a few teams experienced minor mechanical issues at the start, these were swiftly resolved on-site, allowing all vehicles to continue racing.
One of the most talked-about entries this year is an electric vehicle (EV), attracting significant attention for its silent operation, a stark contrast to traditional engines and offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable motorsport.
Environmental protection remains paramount to the Charge. Waste management teams are diligently working across camps and checkpoints, with daily collection and sorting at the on-site Waste Sorting Station before recyclables are transported to Nairobi. Strict compliance protocols and fines ensure minimal environmental footprint. The event also retains its climate-neutral certification, offsetting all carbon emissions through verified carbon credits purchased from the Chyullu Hills REDD+ Project, which aids in conserving Kenya’s indigenous forests.
More than 3,500 competitors, spectators, support crews, and officials were part of this year’s event. The atmosphere in Saimo-Soi was buzzing, fuelled by a shared passion for off-road motorsport and a united mission to protect Kenya’s vital ecosystems. This year also featured live tracking, offering real-time insight into team progress across the grueling terrain.
This marks the fifth time the Rhino Charge has been held in Baringo County, with previous events in Kinyach (2007), Mogoswok (2009), Yatya (2011), and Sabon (2021). The rotation of venues is a hallmark of the event’s commitment to environmental conservation and equitable community benefit.
This year’s new conservation-themed treasure hunt has transformed spectators into active participants, blending excitement with environmental education. Beyond the race, Baringo County captivated visitors with its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, vibrant cultural heritage from the Ilchamus and Tugen communities, and adventure opportunities like hiking, birdwatching, and hot springs.
The event concludes later today, June 1st, with the official Prize-Giving Ceremony, where top-performing teams will be honoured for their achievements on the course and their significant fundraising impact for Rhino Ark’s critical conservation work, which includes protecting mountain ecosystems, wildlife corridors, conservation education, and community conservation initiatives.
