By Timothy Albrite
Quick decision-making, vehicle control, and strong awareness of safety protocols were put to test on 19th July as Kenya’s top drivers gathered at Whistling Morans Circuit for the 2025 Best Driver Challenge National Finals, an event organised by the AA Kenya, a member of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
Now in its third year, the competition brought together 98 finalists selected through regional qualifiers held in Eldoret, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Nairobi. The contest challenges participants to demonstrate a mix of technical driving skill and road safety knowledge.
The national finals featured a series of practical challenges, including a timed wheel change, slalom course, off-road driving, spin plate control, and emergency braking with obstacle avoidance. One of the most demanding exercises was the roll car simulation, where rear tyres are lifted onto rollers, testing a driver’s ability to maintain control under shifting balance.
Each activity was designed to mirror real-life road situations. Drivers were assessed on reaction time, technical precision, decision-making, safety knowledge, and composure.
After a competitive day of trials, two standout drivers, Charles Waweru Kung’u and Victor Maina were crowned Kenya’s Best Young Drivers 2025. Charles won a fully paid trip to Dubai, while Victor received a cash award. Most notably, the pair will represent Kenya at the Africa Best Young Driver Championship, which will be the first time the international contest will be held on African soil.
The championship will bring together national winners from across the continent as part of the FIA’s broader initiative to engage young drivers and reinforce road safety principles through hands-on learning and peer-led leadership.
Nathan Nyarangi Mweresa secured third place in the BYD category, earning a cash reward and the 2nd runner up title for his steady performance.
The event also included two additional categories. In the Masters Category (ages 26–50), Andrew Onwonga claimed first place, winning a trip for two to the Maasai Mara. He was followed by Geoffrey Ochieng Odhiambo and William Odino Otieno.
In the Ladies Category, Caren Cheptoo Kibiego from Eldoret finished first, with Mary Wambui Macharia and Purity Wanjiru taking second and third. Winners in this category received wellness packages, spa treatments, and dinner-for-two experiences.
The Best Driver Challenge goes beyond driving skills. Participants are also tested on road safety knowledge, hazard perception, first aid, and vehicle awareness, reinforcing the event’s core message: being a good driver means being a responsible one.
The Best Young Driver programme, part of a global FIA initiative, is designed to promote safer driving habits among young people. In Kenya, the programme is gaining ground, offering a competitive platform that also supports long-term road safety goals.
With the Africa Best Young Driver Championship set to be hosted in Kenya, the spotlight is now on the country’s rising drivers, who are preparing to represent Kenya at the continental stage.