Adil Khawaja of Team AK44 has emerged as the top fundraiser in the Rhino Charge 2025, an off-road motorsport event known for raising critical funds to conserve Kenya’s threatened water towers.
Sponsored by Safaricom, Khawaja’s team raised a record-shattering KES 139.8 million, helping the 2025 edition amass a total of KES 269.5 million for environmental conservation.
The second-highest fundraising team was Car No. 23, led by Peter Kinyua, bringing in KES 13.5 million. Tim Carstens and Car No. 63 came in third with KES 8.6 million.
“I want to thank all our sponsors, from corporates like Safaricom to the many
individuals who supported my team and me in raising funds for this noble cause of
environmental protection. We couldn’t have done it without your support,” said Adil
Khawaja, Team Lead , AK44.
“While we didn’t hit our mark, we’re proud of what we achieved. We’re even more
motivated to reach our goal next year. Overall, this year’s challenge was one of the
best, featuring tough terrain and stunning landscapes.”
This year’s event was held in Saimo-Soi, Baringo county, and attracted 64 competing vehicles. Participants navigated rugged terrain in a unique motorsport challenge that raises funds for the conservation of Kenya’s water towers. This year’s edition raised a total of KES 269.5 million.
In the competition results, Team Huzi (Car No. 33), led by Jeremy Holley, took top honors after successfully navigating all 13 checkpoints across the challenging 27.3 km course.
The Smiling Shenzis (Car No. 22), led by Gray Cullen, came in second, while 2023 champions Team 48 Glen (Car No. 48), led by Mark Glen, secured third place.
“As a team, we’re really proud to have won this year’s title. It’s our first time finishing at the top in the 15 years we’ve participated. Last year we came in third, and this year we were determined to do better.
This event is very important to us, and we remain committed to supporting its purpose,” said Jeremy Holley. Safaricom contributed a total of KES 25.8 million towards the event through Car No. 44 and the EV Explorers, marking the first time an electric vehicle participated in the competition.
Safaricom played a major role in the event, contributing KES 25.8 million through Car No. 44 and the EV Explorers, which marked the first-ever appearance of an electric vehicle in the competition. Beyond financial support, Safaricom also powered the event with 5G connectivity and hosted a captivating “Emerald Experience” for attendees.
Spectators were treated to an unforgettable night of music and entertainment, capped off by a unique experience: watching the UEFA Champions League Final live in the heart of the wilderness.
