This archive report was first published on 30 June 2021.
On June 24-27, 2021, the World Rally Championship (WRC) descended on Kenya for the return of the Safari Rally to the WRC calendar after a 19-year absence. Sebastian Ogier emerged victorious in the grueling race.
Among the participants were two of President Uhuru Kenyatta's aides, Nzioka Waita and Laban Cliff Onserio. Waita, the Chief of Staff in the Office of President, and Onserio, the Deputy Communications Director for the President's Delivery Unit (PDU), took part in the rally with their respective co-drivers.
Onserio, a seasoned co-driver, partnered with 18-year-old Rio Smith in their Ford Fiesta, car no. 67. Smith, the youngest entrant in the rally, has been racing since he was four years old. The duo posted an impressive performance, finishing 10th in the Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC) standings and 26th in the WRC standings.
On the third day of the rally, Onserio and Smith's right rear wheel was ripped off, leaving their vehicle in need of serious repairs. They were flown to the service base in a chopper by Tourism Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala.
Onserio shared his experience on social media, saying, 'The reality is slowly sinking in. We finished the #WRCSafariRally. 10th Position in KNRC 26th Position in WRC. What an experience!'
Waita, a dyed-in-the-wool rally lover, praised the return of the Safari rally for its stunning landscapes and unforgiving terrain. He wrote, 'The #WRCSafariRally has lived up to its billing…the breathtaking scenery gave way quickly for the heat, dust & exhilarating pace… but most of all it has shown it's true nature: unforgiving & no respecter of fame or status! Truly a one of a kind event!'
