The Africa Concours d’Elegance is an annual motor show, held every September in Kenya, East Africa. It showcases classic and Vintage vehicles, some dating back to earliest days of motoring.
The event ran uninterrupted from 1971 until the Covid-19 pandemic struck, which caused a brief pause. Now back up and running, 2025 marks the 53rd edition of the prestigious event.
The Ngong Race Course in Nairobi has been the venue of choice over recent decades thanks to its spacious grounds, accommodating the ever-growing event.
Africa Concours d’Elegance was started out of a need to create a platform for promoting the heritage and appreciation of vintage, classic and well-maintained vehicles – as well as recognition for their passionate owners.
The event was the brainchild of the late Bob Dewar. In his honour, the 2025 edition was officially named “The Bob Dewar Memorial Edition”. He was a founding member, and a huge motoring enthusiast.
This year, I had the honour of attending and interacting with members of the event organizer – the Alfa Romeo Club of Kenya. The members also showcased some of their own classic Alfa Romeos.
Vehicles were awarded points based on how well they have been maintained in the following six categories: the underside, the exterior, the interior, the engine, vehicle safety and a costume category, where some contestants wear attire to match the theme of their vehicle.
Three entrants in particular stood out, a trio of women in an otherwise male-dominated culture.
The first one being the owner of car No.45, a 1980 BMW 320 (E21) painted in Golf – a bright yellow/green color. It’s owned by Joy Wanday, who was wearing an equally vibrant dress to match her vehicle for the costume category.
The second combo which drew my attention was Kamene Wanday showcasing car No.67, a red 1972 Alfa Romeo Spider – and if you haven’t made the connection, she was there alongside her daughter, Joy. Kamene was full of happiness while proudly explaining her Alfa Romeo to the judges. Kamene’s Alfa Romeo Spider won the best overall Alfa Romeo award.
Thirdly, Veronica Duder stole the show with a very interesting Rolls-Royce. Car No.79, a 1934 Rolls-Royce Boattail, received the third-place award in the Masterclass category.
For us Kenyans, this great event has become more than a car show. It’s a proud annual tradition that highlights Kenya’s place in global car culture, attracting collectors, restorers and enthusiasts from across East Africa and beyond.
Kenya has to be one of the most overlooked countries especially for cars like look at how vibrant the classic and vintage car scene is here!
Imagine what the tuner import scene or even the muscle car scene would be like
I agree. I am worried about a small problem however. Many vintage and classics here are being bought and shipped to other countries. I hope they don’t reduce much, Otherwise in future there won’t be much to showcase
Yeah your concern is valid hopefully it doesn’t take away from the beautiful vibrant scene in this country