Vasha residents rev up for electrifying 2024 Safari Rally

With the 2024 WRC Safari Rally on the horizon, the vibrant town of Naivasha in Nakuru County is already buzzing with anticipation and excitement.

The 2024 Safari Rally is slated for March 28-31 at its traditional venue in Naivasha, commonly referred to as 'Vasha' by the many who flock to the town for the WRC.

The residents are not only excited about the thrilling event, but also its impact on the local economy, social dynamics, and entertainment scenes.

A recent visit to the town by Mozzart Sport revealed that the community was in its vibrant and buzzing self. Businesses were in full swing, and the streets were alive with activity.

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Conversations with residents shed light on the prevailing tough economic times, but there was a shared optimism that the upcoming 2024 Safari Rally would serve as a significant boost to the local economic scene. Most of the residents were optimistic that the change in dates was crucial in attracting as many fans as possible to the town.

"Mambo haisongi (business is down). We are hoping that the rally will uplift the businesses," John Karanja, a cafe owner in the town revealed.

The town anticipates a significant influx of tourists which will in turn lead to increased revenue for local businesses.

On the outskirts of the town, we chatted with Mary Muthoni who was in the process of renovating her residential houses. According to Muthoni, when she heard that the rally would happen in the town, she started refurbishing her house to serve as an Airbnb during the period of the rally.

"I am expecting up to 15 visitors for each room here. When I am done, I will know how much to charge. Last year, I told myself that I would do this to earn a good income," she averred.

As the town prepares to host this global spectacle, various sectors, including hospitality, event management, and service industries, are gearing up to meet the demands of the influx of visitors.

Local businesses are expected to hire additional staff to accommodate the surge in clientele, ranging from hotels and restaurants to transportation services. This temporary employment surge promises financial relief for individuals in the community.

"When the houses are complete, I will have to hire people to help me look after the visitors during that period. It is a great economic booster," Muthoni continued.

The event, according to Muthoni would play a great role in bringing families together. The dates coincide with the school holidays and families are expected to come out in full force.

"I must take my children to enjoy this event. Especially the final day on Sunday, it will be a family day for me," she revealed.

The rally will also give a platform for Naivasha to showcase its unique culture and hospitality to a diverse audience. This is likely to contribute to the town's identity on a global stage.

The town already boasts rich tourist attraction sites including Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate, Mount Longonot, and Hippo Point. With visitors from different parts of the world, the residents can look forward to cultural exchanges, enriching the community with diverse perspectives.

Besides the economic and community advantages, most of the residents revealed that they are more excited about the adrenaline-pumping action.

"I can't wait for the rally. I will go to Hell's Park to watch it like last year. It is the most beautiful part," Austine Wekesa said.

"The last time I watched the rally was in 2022. I am looking forward to this one as well," John Ochieng revealed.

Meanwhile, two of the spectator stages at the Safari Rally have been modified as organizers prepare for an exciting round. The end of the Sleeping Warrior Section has been moved further down the stage.

The Kedong Stage will now be run in reverse order from what was done last year.

Apart from minor changes to the Sleeping Warrior and Kedong stages, the rest of the Competitive Sections will remain the way they were in last year's Safari Rally, running around the nerve center at the Wildlife Research and Training Institute in Naivasha.