For over two years, Saimo-Soi in Baringo North, Baringo County, has been an operational zone for the military and other security agencies under ‘Operation Maliza Uhalifu’.  

The boots are on the ground to eliminate the insecurity threat posed to locals by bandits, but over the weekend, the gunshot sound was replaced by the roaring sounds of 4-by-4 off-road vehicles, taking part in the 36th edition of the Rhino Charge.

JM Arimi, a Kenya Defence Force officer overseeing the operation, termed the move to host the challenge in the region as a bold one that gives his officers morale and the energy to end banditry.

“The Rhino Charge gives us hope and clarity that it is possible for us to end the insecurity in the area. We are here for security, education and infrastructure,” Arimi said.

Though an operation zone area, the Rhino Charge competition brought life to the rugged region while bandits were kept at bay.

And as the bandits kept off, 64 competitors during this year had other threats: bee attack.  

Clerk Course, Don White said, 9 people were rescued and evacuated after they were attacked by bees.

“Baringo is known for honey production and therefore, bee attacks are usually expected, and apart from the attacks, car number 22 rolled, injuring one, but it was not serious,” White said.

On Saturday, the vehicles were seen off starting at 7:30 am, with the ceremonial flag-off at the Solex checkpoint led by Baringo Governor 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.

Silent future

“Baringo is more than just a stunning landscape, it’s a haven for biodiversity, adventure, and cultural heritage,” Governor Cheboi stated, noting that hosting Rhino Charge not only showcases the county’s natural wonders but also reinforces commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism.

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 diligently work 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 gruelling terrain.

After overcoming all the challenges, the winners were crowned and received their trophies, but Mother Nature was the biggest winner where a total of Ksh269.5 million was raised.

Christian Lambrechts, the Rhino Ark executive director, revealed that the money raised through the competition has helped in the construction of 805 kilometres of electric fence in Aberdare, Mau Forest, Kakamega, among other critical water towers.

“This fence has helped us protect over 500 Kenyans from human-wildlife conflict. And due to the conservation of the ecosystem, several reports indicate a total of over Ksh348 billion is injected into the economy annually,” said Christian.

Safaricom emerged as the top fundraiser with Ksh139 million, which is less than last year when they still emerged top with Ksh269 million.

Peter Kinyua, Rhino Ark chairman, came second with Ksh13 million.

This year 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.