KCB's KShs. 195 Million Boost to WRC Safari Rally Kenya: A Milestone in East African Sports Sponsorship

KCB Bank Kenya Invests KShs. 195 Million in 2024 WRC Safari Rally.* 

Nairobi,12th Feb , 2024

In Summary, 

• KCB Becomes Official Financial Partner for the 4-Day World Rally Championship Leg

By Maximilla WAFULA & Patrick KIMANZI (Editor)

The County Diary News .

KCB Bank Kenya MD Annastacia Kimtai, KCB sponsored driver Karan Patel, PS Ministry of Sports, Eng. Peter Tum, KCB sponsored Driver, Nikhil Sachania, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Ababu Namwamba, and KCB Group CEO, Paul Russo during a cheque presentation during the KCB WRC sponsorship announcement and the unveiling of the drivers ahead of the anticipated 2024 WRC Safari Rally scheduled for 28th -31st March 2024.

KCB Bank Kenya has made a resounding commitment to the 2024 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, injecting a substantial KShs. 195 million into the prestigious motorsport event. Set to unfold in Naivasha, Nakuru County, from March 28th to 31st, the bank secures its role as the official Financial Partner for the fourth leg of the WRC calendar, solidifying its stature as a prominent sports sponsor in East Africa.

The comprehensive investment encompasses KShs. 100 million dedicated to supporting the rally's preparations and logistics, with an additional KShs. 16.6 million earmarked for sponsoring two local drivers – the reigning African Rally Champion, Karan Patel, and Nikhil Sachania. The remainder of the fund will fuel various customer engagement campaigns and brand activations.

Reflecting on the bank's involvement, KCB Group CEO Paul Russo expressed pride in contributing to the region's motorsport legacy since 2003. He highlighted the transformative journey that has propelled Kenya back into the global motoring spotlight, emphasizing the positive impact on young talent.

With a rich history in sports sponsorship, KCB has allocated a substantial amount, totaling KShs. 2.5 billion over several decades, supporting diverse sports such as rugby, golf, athletics, football, volleyball, and rugby. This financial commitment aligns with the Group's brand purpose – "For People. For Better."

Noteworthy is the bank's remarkable investment of over KShs. 1.7 billion in motorsports over the past 21 years, spanning the Kenya National Rally Championship, Autocross, and the Safari Rally.

CEO Paul Russo underscored KCB's dedication to sustainability within motorsports, integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The bank has adopted SDG 13 on Climate Action, actively participating in environmental conservation through tree planting activities and waste management initiatives during the rally.

The commitment to the social pillar involves ensuring the safety of spectators and drivers, enforcing comprehensive rules, and regulations. KCB aims to promote inclusivity and diversity by empowering small businesses, youth, women, and underrepresented groups.

Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Ababu Namwamba praised KCB's reliability as a partner, expressing pride in hosting such a world-class event. The bank, in appreciation of its loyal customers, launched the Gurumisha na KCB Promotion, encouraging savings with a chance to win substantial prizes of up to Kshs 500,000 weekly.

The 2024 Safari Rally is anticipated to be a fierce competition, attracting over 50 local drivers, including defending Champion Sebastian Ogier and former Champion Kalle Rovanperä. KCB's multi-faceted investment underscores its commitment to motorsports, sustainability, and community impact, promising an exhilarating rallying experience for Kenyans.

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