By AMANDA DAMARIS
Koelel Forces Academy from Gilgil has emerged victorious in the inaugural KCB WRC Green Debate, capping off a series of sustainability initiatives hosted alongside the 2026 Safari Rally Kenya.
The school triumphed in a fiercely contested final that brought together 32 schools from the Nairobi and Nakuru regions. The debate series, part of KCB’s broader sustainability agenda, provided students with a platform to discuss pressing environmental and social issues.
The finals, held at Naivasha Girls High School, featured spirited debates on topics ranging from corporate governance and clean energy to sustainable finance, environmental conservation, and social responsibility.
Speaking after the win, Koelel’s debate patron, Mrs. Margaret Gakii, said: “Debate Circle hosts debates throughout the year, but this series was unique because it focused specifically on sustainability and climate issues. It challenged our students to think critically about the future and the role young people can play in protecting the environment.”
Murang’a High School finished as the first runners-up, while Utumishi Boys Academy secured third place. The winning schools received cash prizes to support sustainability initiatives spearheaded by their debate clubs: KShs. 90,000 for Koelel, KShs. 60,000 for Murang’a, and KShs. 30,000 for Utumishi.
These funds will back projects such as tree planting drives, environmental awareness campaigns, waste management programs, and community clean-up activities. In addition, all schools received trophies, KCB-branded merchandise, and certificates recognizing the students’ contributions.
“At KCB, sustainability is embedded in our strategy. We are investing in green financing, supporting clean energy solutions, and advancing sustainable finance. However, policies and financing alone are not enough. We also need innovative ideas and young leaders who are ready to champion sustainable development,” noted KCB Naivasha Branch Manager, Zacharia Njeru.
The Green Debate was organized in partnership with Debate Circle and KenGen, reflecting a shared commitment to promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable development.
Since the return of the Safari Rally to Kenya in 2021, KCB has woven sustainability initiatives into the rally, planting over 3,000 trees with local schools and implementing robust waste management programs. During the recent rally, over two tonnes of mixed waste were collected across various rally stages, including Kedong, Sleeping Warrior, and Elementaita, and are being sorted and recycled through strategic partners.
In line with the WRC Promoter Beyond initiative, KCB recognizes that beyond reducing its own environmental footprint, it has the responsibility and opportunity to use this global platform to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable future.
The Promoter works collaboratively with shareholders, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), event organizers, teams, drivers, fans, suppliers, broadcasters, local governments, and other stakeholders to raise environmental consciousness and deepen understanding of the impact of motorsport on the environment.
