BY FRANK KKAHEESI-

Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) delivered a commanding performance at the legendary Safari Rally Kenya after three of its sponsored drivers emerged winners in their respective categories at one of the most demanding rallies on the global motorsport calendar.

Ahead of the event, KCB assembled a strong regional driver lineup under its “Revvisha” campaign, headlined by two-time African rally champion Karan Patel. The bank committed significant financial backing, setting aside approximately 27 million Kenyan shillings to support four drivers from across East Africa. The selected crew included Kenya’s Karan Patel and Nikhil Sachania, Uganda’s Oscar Ntambi, and Rwanda’s Queen Kalimpinya.

The investment paid off handsomely as the KCB-backed drivers conquered the grueling rally terrain to secure three category victories.

Patel led the charge with an outstanding drive, clinching victory in the main African Rally Championship (ARC) category while also finishing as the top Kenyan driver in the WRC2 classification. His performance underlined his reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent rally drivers and proved vital in KCB’s successful campaign.

His teammate Nikhil Sachania also delivered a strong showing, skillfully navigating the punishing stages of the Safari Rally to win his respective class. Combined with another category triumph from the KCB-supported lineup, the bank walked away from the iconic event with three class winners, marking a significant milestone for the regional motorsport program.

Uganda’s Oscar Ntambi and Rwanda’s Queen Kalimpinya also demonstrated resilience throughout the rally, battling the rough terrain, unpredictable weather, and mechanical challenges that make the Safari Rally one of the toughest competitions in the world.

Following the successful Safari Rally outing, KCB is now shifting focus to the regional rally season. The bank is set to officially unveil its 2026 motorsport calendar on 18th March, outlining its continued commitment to rally development across East Africa.

The season is expected to kick off with the opening round of the Uganda National Rally Championship in Mbale, where several KCB-supported drivers are likely to feature as they prepare for the broader African rally campaign.

With momentum firmly on their side after the Safari Rally triumph, KCB’s motorsport team heads into the new season with confidence and high expectations.