54 Rhino Charge cars are expected to undergo scrutiny from Friday morning until dusk ahead of the competition scheduled for Saturday at Torosei in Kajiado County.
This rigorous inspection ensures that all vehicles comply with the event’s rules, setting the stage for one of the world’s toughest off-road competitions.
Among the 54 vehicles, six new entrants are eager to test their skills and endurance in this challenging race.
Since early Thursday, competing cars have been registering for Kenya’s unique off-road event, which is renowned for raising substantial funds for environmental conservation.
Notably, by the close of the online ticketing portal on Friday, May 24, 2024, approximately 4,102 people had registered to attend the event.
This marks a notable increase from the 3,750 attendees at last year’s Charge in Nkoteyia, reflecting the growing popularity of this unique competition.
Each year, the Rhino Charge Organising Committee selects a host conservancy based on several factors, including community willingness, terrain diversity, low human settlement density, and appropriate landscape.
This year, the Torosei community in Kenya’s southern landscape bordering Tanzania was chosen to meet these criteria.
Hosting the Rhino Charge is expected to enhance the area’s visibility to investors and tourists, encouraging the community to leverage their heritage.
In preparation for the event, local workers were hired to assist in setting up the venue infrastructure, providing much-needed income opportunities for the Torosei community.
Additionally, the community will benefit from the Land Access Fees, which can be used to fund projects such as building school classrooms or installing boreholes.
Since its inception, the Rhino Charge has donated over Ksh 70.7 million to various host communities, significantly contributing to local development.
This year’s Rhino Charge promises an exciting lineup of events:- Friday, 31st May: Scrutineering (inspection of the competing cars)
– Saturday, 1st June: Rhino Charge competition
– Sunday, 2nd June: Prize-giving ceremony
Kajiado County holds a special place in the history of Rhino Charge, having hosted the inaugural event in 1989.
Over its 35-year history, the county has welcomed participants to various locations, including Suswa (1989), Magadi (1990), L’rogoswa (2004), Londuroj (2010), Nyokie (2013), Mosiro (2022), and this year’s venue, Torosei.
Torosei, nestled in the picturesque Magadi-Natron landscape, is a critical wildlife migratory corridor. This year’s event highlights the region’s natural beauty, often referred to as “the land of diversity.”
As Torosei prepares to welcome participants and spectators, the community looks forward to showcasing its unique landscape and reaping the benefits of this prestigious event.
The Rhino Charge not only tests the endurance and skill of its participants but also fosters environmental conservation and community development, making it a truly remarkable event.
