Over 1,000 police deployed as govt tightens security for Safari Rally 2026
By Mustafa Juma, March 12, 2026The government has deployed more than 1,000 police officers and activated a multi-agency security framework to ensure safety and smooth operations during the Safari Rally Kenya, scheduled to run from March 12 to March 15, 2026, in Naivasha.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, March 12, 2026, via social media, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration said comprehensive security, traffic management, and public safety measures had been put in place ahead of the globally renowned motorsport event, which is part of the World Rally Championship calendar.
Multi-agency coordination
According to the ministry, the government has activated a coordinated security plan involving several state agencies to safeguard rally drivers, teams, spectators, and residents during the competition period.
The security arrangement brings together institutions including the National Police Service, National Transport and Safety Authority, Kenya National Highways Authority, and National Government Administration Officers.
“The security arrangement involves several government institutions, including the National Police Service, National Government Administration Officers, National Transport and Safety Authority, and the Kenya National Highways Authority, working closely with county authorities and rally organisers to facilitate smooth operations throughout the event period,” the ministry said.
The officers will be deployed across rally routes, spectator zones, and key access roads to maintain security, manage crowds, and support traffic control operations.
Traffic disruptions
The government has also warned motorists to expect temporary traffic management measures and road diversions along designated rally routes and surrounding access corridors during the four-day event.
Motorists travelling along the Nairobi–Naivasha highway without business in Naivasha have been encouraged to consider alternative routes to ease congestion.
Suggested routes include the Nairobi–Limuru–Flyover–Njabini–Ol Kalou–Ndondori–Lanet–Nakuru road and the Nairobi–Mai Mahiu–Narok–Nakuru–Western Kenya corridor.
“Motorists travelling along the Nairobi-Naivasha highway corridor without business in Naivasha are encouraged to consider alternative routes to ease congestion, including the Nairobi-Limuru-Flyover-Njabini-Ol Kalou-Ndondori-Lanet-Nakuru route and the Nairobi-Mai Mahiu-Narok-Nakuru-Western Kenya route,” the statement reads in part.
Authorities also urged drivers to exercise caution due to heavy rainfall reported in several areas, warning that the conditions could lead to localised flooding.
Spectators planning to attend the rally have been urged to observe the event strictly from designated spectator zones and comply with safety instructions issued by security officers and rally marshals.
The government also cautioned fans against accessing restricted rally tracks or operational areas, noting that strict enforcement measures will be applied to ensure safety.
“The Government calls upon rally fans, residents and visitors to cooperate with security officers and rally officials, adhere to traffic guidelines and observe safety instructions to ensure the successful and safe hosting of Safari Rally Kenya,” the statement added.
The Safari Rally remains one of Kenya’s premier international sporting events, attracting thousands of fans and global motorsport teams to Naivasha and the wider Rift Valley region each year.