Backed by more than Sh20 million in sponsorship commitments, Kenya’s rally duo Pauline Sheghu and Linet Ayuko stood tall under the February 25, 2026 sun outside Kawi House, declaring bold ambitions for the season ahead.

With major backing, including Women in PR’s Sh10 million in kind support and Sh1 million in cash, National Oil’s Sh3 million, Kenya Power’s Sh1 million, Kevian Group’s Sh1 million, Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC)’s Sh1 million, KenGen’s Sh500,000, Kenya Pipeline’s Sh500,000, Stima Sacco’s Sh500,000, Geothermal Development Company (GDC)’s Sh250,000, Farmers Choice’s Sh100,000, and Sh2 million from the State Department for Petroleum, the Queens of the Dust have set two clear targets: finish their fourth WRC Safari Rally from March 12-15 and compete in all legs of the African Rally Championship (ARC) for the first time.

Even as they celebrated the financial boost, the duo called on additional sponsors to join their journey, noting that a full ARC campaign across Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda would require sustained support.

Principal Secretary for Petroleum, Mohamed Liban set the momentum early. “Go for it. I believe this time, the prize is yours to take. We will commit Sh2 million as the State Department for Petroleum.”

Engineer Alex Wachira, PS Energy, added confidently. “This is your fourth rally. Podium finishes at Safari are not a mean achievement. We are powering the car, and together ensuring the crew is powered, too.”

Corporate leaders echoed the optimism.

Kanana Ndegwa, Head of Marketing, Farmers Choice said, “Preparation starts with good nutrition. You are inspiring and carrying the Kenyan flag high.”

Gamaliel Hassan, Stima Sacco CEO, added, “We were proud to release the first check because we believe in you.”

Dr. Rugendo Kimani of Kevian declared, “When women take the wheel, the future shifts. We will hydrate you from start to finish.”

Grace Munjuri of Women in PR affirmed, “From today, we take care of your communication needs. When women rise, they rise together.”

Engineer Eric Ohaga, representing Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NUPEA), wished them “an atomic moment.” Linda Korir of Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (Ketraco) congratulated them in advance. REREC CEO Rose Mkalama emphasized that the energy sector stood firmly behind them. Leparan ole Morintat, Managing Director and CEO of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya pledged full support, while Moses Khaemba of GDC highlighted resilience and teamwork. Ahmed Issac of KenGen described them as “a statement of national ambition.” Kenya Pipeline reaffirmed long-standing support for Ayuko. Kenya Power Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Joseph Siror offered blessings, and Digital Communications Manager at Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Brian Mureithi assured that regulated fuel standards would power every mile.

When Sheghu addressed the gathering, she first acknowledged her teammate. “Allow me to appreciate my navigator.”

Ayuko stepped forward. “My goal is always to get the driver to the podium. This year we are competing in three events in one—the WRC Safari Rally, the African Rally Championship, and the Kenya National Rally Championship. Safari alone costs nearly Sh12 million. Tyres are imported from Europe, the car is strictly specified, and even our fireproof suits are costly. Your support gets us to the start line. To sustain the ARC season, we still welcome more partners.”

Sheghu added, “We don’t take your support for granted. For the first time, our mother ministry has come out strongly for us. We are humbled.”

As the final speaker, Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, Opiyo Wandayi closed the ceremony. “I congratulate our two heroines. You have already made history by completing three WRC Safari Rallies. Today, I officially declare that you will compete under the name Queens of the Dust. The entire country is behind you. Keep your foot on the pedals, and victory will be yours.”

Soon, the dust of Naivasha and Nakuru will rise again. And when it does, the Queens of the Dust will charge forward, backed by millions, driven by ambition, and determined to make history both at home and across Africa.