NAIROBI, Kenya – Stima Sacco has officially announced its sponsorship of veteran driver Pauline Sheghu, marking a high-profile partnership aimed at driving female excellence on the global stage.
The sponsorship was unveiled during a colorful ceremony held in conjunction with the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum.
The event drew a powerful assembly of key players from the energy sector and corporate sponsors, all converging to signal a united front behind Sheghu’s “Heels on Wheels” campaign.
For decades, the Safari Rally—renowned as the toughest fixture in the World Rally Championship calendar—has been perceived as a male-dominated arena. However, the 2026 edition is set to showcase a shifting narrative.
With Stima Sacco’s backing, Sheghu is not merely participating as a representative of her gender but is positioned as a formidable competitor ready to command the gruelling terrain of Naivasha.
Speaking during the launch on Wednesday, February 25, Stima Sacco CEO Dr Gamaliel Hassan emphasized that the Sacco’s support for Sheghu transcends the sport of rallying.
He noted that “Heels on Wheels” represents momentum and courage in motion, serving as a metaphor for women taking the wheel in all facets of life, including business and leadership.
“At Stima Sacco, we believe empowerment is more than a promise; it is partnership. It is about backing excellence and investing in women who dare to take the wheel. When women rise, industries rally behind them,” said Dr Hassan.
Pauline Sheghu, a trailblazer who has consistently shattered glass ceilings in the Kenyan motorsport scene, welcomed the partnership as a vital fuel for her journey.
Her presence on the 2026 starting ramp will serve as a beacon for aspiring female drivers across the continent, proving that the dust and heat of the Safari Rally are no longer exclusive to men.
The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum echoed these sentiments, praising the synergy between the energy sector and sports development.
As the countdown to the WRC Safari Rally 2026 begins, the spotlight remains firmly on Sheghu. With the financial and moral weight of Stima Sacco behind her, she carries the aspirations of a nation eager to see “Heels on Wheels” conquer the world’s most iconic rally.
Author: Sacco Trend
