Gov't deploys over 1,000 police officers for WRC Safari Rally

The government has rolled out extensive security and traffic management measures for the Safari Rally Kenya 2026, set to take place in Naivasha and its surrounding areas from March 12 to 15.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration said a multi-agency coordination framework has been activated to ensure the safety of rally drivers, teams, spectators and residents during the globally recognised event on the World Rally Championship calendar.

According to the ministry, the operation will involve several government agencies working jointly with rally organisers and county authorities to facilitate smooth operations throughout the four-day event.

Key institutions participating in the security and logistical arrangements include the National Police Service (NPS), National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).

More than 1,000 police officers drawn from different formations will be deployed along rally routes, spectator zones and major access roads.

The officers will be tasked with maintaining security, managing crowds and supporting traffic control operations during the competition period.

Authorities have also announced temporary traffic management measures, including road diversions along designated rally routes and surrounding access corridors to ease movement and ensure safety.

Motorists travelling along the busy Nairobi–Naivasha highway corridor without business in Naivasha have been encouraged to use alternative routes to reduce congestion. Recommended routes include the Nairobi–Limuru–Flyover–Njabini–Ol Kalou–Ndondori–Lanet–Nakuru corridor and the Nairobi–Mai Mahiu–Narok–Nakuru–Western Kenya route.

Rally fans attending the event have been urged to watch the race only from designated spectator zones and to follow instructions issued by security officers and event marshals.

The government further called on residents, visitors and rally enthusiasts to cooperate with authorities, observe traffic guidelines and adhere to safety instructions to ensure the successful and safe hosting of the international motorsport event.

The Safari Rally is one of Kenya’s premier sporting events and a key fixture on the World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar, attracting thousands of local and international spectators to Naivasha each year.