Kalimpinya eyes strong Safari debut as KenGen unveils three-car WRC line-up

Navigated by Olivier Ngabo, Kalimpinya will become one of the few Rwandan drivers to tackle the grueling Kenyan classic, widely regarded as the toughest round on the World Rally Championship calendar. 

The Safari’s punishing gravel, unpredictable weather and endurance-demanding stages present a stern examination for even the most seasoned competitors.

The Rwandan driver was officially unveiled on Tuesday at Stima Plaza in Nairobi during the launch of a three-car team sponsored by Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen). 

The ceremony marked a major milestone in her career as she prepares to fly Rwanda’s flag on one of rallying’s most iconic stages.

“I am very excited to do my first rally outside Rwanda. It’s huge, but we are confident we will make it,” said Kalimpinya. 

“We have tested in Rwanda and done a lot of physical training in preparation for the Safari. 

"The car is well prepared, of course with people who understand the dynamics of the Safari.”

Kalimpinya, who successfully transitioned from modelling to motorsport and rose to become Rwanda’s first female rally driver, heads into the event buoyed by her recent national title triumph. 

However, she acknowledges that the Safari presents a completely different level of competition.

Kenyan ace Andrew Muiruri, navigated by Edward Njoroge in a Subaru N12, will be banking on valuable Safari experience. 

A regular since the event returned to the WRC circuit in 2021, Muiruri has endured both triumph and mechanical heartbreak on the unforgiving terrain.

“I have participated in all Safaris since the return of the WRC in 2021 and had a share of good runs and gremlins. 

The best was last year when we came fifth in the Kenya National category and first in our class,” said Muiruri.

Also in the line-up are Ismail Azeli and John Ngugi in a Ford Fiesta R5, as the Kenyan crews look to defend home pride against a strong international field.

Speaking during the launch, KenGen Managing Director Eng. Peter Njenga underscored the parallels between motorsport and high-performance industry.

“Motorsport demands resilience, precision and endurance — the same qualities that define our operations.

"Supporting local drivers is not symbolic, it is strategic. 

"We are investing in Kenyan talent and reinforcing our country’s competitive presence on the world stage,” Njenga said.

With thorough preparation, regional ambition and experience in their ranks, the KenGen-backed trio will be aiming not just to finish the Safari Rally, but to deliver performances worthy of the event’s legendary status.