Nairobi News

Vivo Energy Kenya, the company that distributes and markets Shell products and services in the country, has unveiled an all-ladies rally team they will sponsor during the Safari Rally.

Pauline Sheghu, navigated by Linet Ayuko, and Tinashe Gatimu, co-driven by Caroline Gatimu, a mother-daughter duo, will fly the Shell banner during this year’s Safari Rally event.

The Company also announced that they will fuel the ladies with Avgas.

This sponsorship aligns with Vivo Energy Kenya’s agenda on gender equality and inclusion in every sector of the communities we interact with. As the world celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8th, the Company’s commitment stands at the forefront of empowering women in motorsports, which aligns with the Women’s Day theme: ‘Inspire inclusivity.

During the event, Vivo Energy Group Vice President of Marketing Ann Gitao reaffirmed the Company’s unwavering commitment to supporting sports talent in the country. “We have immensely invested in sports talent nationwide for the last decade. This year, we will tap into the motorsport talent of the country’s lady drivers and youth. We want to see them compete at top-tier events and motivate the girls to follow their dreams,” said Gitao.

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Vivo Energy Kenya recognizes the role of the youth, who comprise most of the country’s population. Ann Gitao added, “We also support Neel Gohil and Fahim Abdul, who have actively participated and continue to leave their mark on KNRC.”

Pauline Sheghu is a seasoned communication specialist.

Her navigator, Linet Ayuko, has guided ten drivers to top finishes over the years. “I am grateful to Vivo Energy Kenya for their solid support in this year’s event; we are keen on posting positive results and will leave nothing to chance,” said Sheghu.

Caroline Gatimu has competed in 13 events. Her daughter, Tinashe Gatimu, competed in a record 16 events last year, finishing 10th overall in the national category during last year’s WRC outing. “My journey in motorsport shines with brilliance. Thanks to my parents, I participated in motorsports at an early age. With Vivo Energy Kenya sponsorship, I am confident that my path towards being a work team driver is undeterred,” said Tinashe.

Vivo Energy Kenya Managing Director Mr. Peter Murungi lauded the crews for their tenacity, determination, and hard work, reiterating that the motorsport ethos augurs well with the brand’s purpose of delivering long-term value to diverse stakeholders, angling for long-term success.

“Motorsport in Kenya is vibrant; I wish the crews the best of luck as they aim to cement their legacy in this year’s World Rally Championship event,” said Murungi.

The 2024 Safari Rally will kick off at KICC on March 29th, 2024. The crews will tackle the 4.84 Kms Kasarani Super Special Stage before crossing the vast Nairobi and Nakuru counties and the prize giving at the scenic Hells Gate Stage during these Easter festivities.