Since the iconic WRC Safari Rally made its remarkable return to Kenya in 2021, Naivasha has become a magnet for motorsport enthusiasts from across the globe. For the past five years, thousands of fans have flocked to this lakeside town to witness rally cars take on the rugged and dusty terrains, an experience that blends adrenaline, nature and cultural vibrancy.
But the Safari Rally is more than just a sporting spectacle; it’s a vital economic engine for the locals. The event has generated a significant buzz for Kenya’s small businesses, hawkers and vendors, many of whom rely on the rally season as a major opportunity to earn.
Ordinarily, the vast ranches in Naivasha are home to wildlife. But for four electrifying days, these serene habitats are transformed into bustling spectator stages packed with rally fans. For local traders, these rally stages become thriving markets, with vendors selling everything from food and drinks to camping gears, and souvenirs.
While the crowds and excitement create the perfect backdrop for trade, the convenience and seamless use of M-PESA has greatly influenced transactions here. In these often remote areas, cashless transactions have become a lifeline for both traders and customers at large.
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For food vendors like Samuel Osore, a resident of Naivasha who has attended every Safari Rally event since its return, M-PESA has transformed his operations. Osore, who sells chapatis, smokies, sausage and samosas at the spectator stages, says that cashless payment through M-PESA has made his business more efficient and customer-friendly.
“Since I started my business and whenever I am here at the rally, I have always preferred cashless payments because they are very convenient for me as a businessperson. As you can see, I have a Lipa Na M-PESA Till where my customers can make quick payments. Most of the people buying also do not carry physical cash nowadays hence M-PESA is more preferred. It’s fast, safe and convenient,” says Osore.
Like Osore, Saitoti Kennedy Menga, a leather goods vendor from Mlango Kubwa in Nairobi, sees the rally as a crucial business opportunity. Since Thursday, he and his friends have camped in Naivasha, selling leather products and traditional hats, which are a hit among rally fans.
“For the past two consecutive rallies, I have never missed this spot, selling my goods. This time around, I came with my friends all the way because this is a great opportunity to make money. Rally-goers love these kinds of hats,” says Saitoti.
Saitoti says M-PESA is indispensable. “Most of my customers prefer paying through M-PESA. I like it too because it is hassle-free considering I don’t have to move around asking for change, which is usually a challenge in such places. Customers also sometimes include the withdrawal charges, which increases my profits,” he adds.
John Mwangi, a soft drink vendor from Nakuru explained that services such as Pochi La Biashara offer additional benefits. “Last year was better for business due to the economy, but I still value coming here,” Mwangi says. “At the rally, I always recommend that customers use Pochi La Biashara. It prevents transaction reversals and secures my earnings.”
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