This year was Castor Vali’s 10th year, as the official Rhino Charge security sponsor responsible for managing the safety and security of the event in Kenya.
The 37th edition of this off-road motorsport challenge saw 65 customised vehicles navigate 100 square kilometers of difficult terrain within a strict 10-hour window.
Operating an Intelligence-Led Response in Samburu County
This year’s event was held in the Ngilai Community Conservancy in Samburu County. Managing an off-road motorsport in a remote, semi-arid environment like this presents unique risks, from extreme terrain navigation to medical isolation.
The 2026 Charge carried an enhanced operational requirement with His Excellency President William Ruto in attendance, accompanied by Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano. A presidential visit adds a further layer of complexity to a remote deployment, requiring close coordination between private security providers and government agencies, including the Presidential Escort Unit, local administration, and law enforcement.
The operation was led on the ground by Castor Vali’s CEO, Steve Grant, in his role as Deputy Clerk of the Course and member of the main Rhino Charge committee and Kevin Crawford, Country Manager Kenya.
To ensure all stakeholders were fully informed and VVIP protocols integrated, Castor Vali’s Risk Intelligence Service began preparations months in advance with a comprehensive risk assessment of the operating environment, covering:
- Regional Overview: A detailed analysis of Samburu County’s administrative structures, infrastructure, and main access routes.
- Environmental and Terrain Analysis: Mapping out localised risks, including extreme terrain hazards and areas prone to human-wildlife conflict.
- Event and VVIP Level Analysis: Assessment of spectator management, multi-agency communications and presidential arrival and evacuation procedures.
Practical Solutions: Keeping the Footprint Prepared and Secured
For the 2026 Charge, we partnered with Sigma7 Resilience & Training to ensure everyone on-site was thoroughly prepared.
Together, we launched a dedicated digital training portal ahead of the event. This platform equipped teams, corporate sponsors, and volunteers with practical first aid, trauma stabilisation, and security awareness guidance tailored to the realities of a remote and high-risk environment.
Shattering Conservation Records Safely
The event raised a record-breaking USD 2.8 million (Ksh 365 million) for the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust, the highest total in the history of the Charge.
Adil Khawaja (Car No. 44), backed by Safaricom, raised an incredible USD 1.7 million (Ksh 216 million). The winners this year, were the defending champions, Team Huzi (Car No. 33), led by Oliver Outram.
Rhino Ark also presented a USD 70,300 (Ksh 9.1 million) cheque directly to the host Ngilai community to fund local development projects and support the regional ecosystem.
A Legacy of Protection
Looking back over ten years of supporting the Rhino Charge, Castor Vali is proud to be a trusted partner of this event. We know that securing remote operations requires practical solutions, real-world expertise, and a genuine commitment to the people on the ground. By providing a safe environment, we are proud to help protect Kenya’s vital mountain forests and water towers for the future. Until next year!
