PHOTOS: 52nd Africa Concours d’Elegance: A Perfect Blend of Automotive Excellence & Fashion

PHOTOS: 52nd Africa Concours d’Elegance: A Perfect Blend of Automotive Excellence & Fashion

The 52nd edition of the Africa Concours d’Elegance, held at the Ngong Racecourse, was a fun-filled celebration of automotive artistry and fashion. The event drew thousands of car enthusiasts, families, and fashion-forward individuals to one of Nairobi’s most anticipated social gatherings.

Organized by the Alfa Romeo Owners Club and sponsored by Stanbic Bank Kenya, this year’s Concours struck the perfect balance between elegance and excitement, making it the ultimate Sunday family outing.

As always, the cars were the stars of the show. Over 70 meticulously restored classic and vintage automobiles and 40 stunning motorcycles graced the grounds. From gleaming hoods to polished fenders, each vehicle told its own story of nostalgia and craftsmanship, offering a rare glimpse into automotive history—with some models dating as far back as the 1920s.

Sati Gata-Aura’s 1977 Nissan 160J stole the spotlight, recapturing the title he first claimed in 1988 with a remarkable 269 points.

But it wasn’t just the cars turning heads.

The event also doubled as a runway for fashion lovers, who strutted through the day in stylish ensembles that perfectly complemented the vintage elegance of the vehicles. Sun hats, designer sunglasses, and smartly tailored outfits were in abundance, making the Concours a visual feast in more ways than one.

Families with young children found delight in the dedicated entertainment areas, where face painting, interactive games, and other kid-friendly activities kept the little ones busy. Meanwhile, live bands filled the air with upbeat tunes, adding a vibrant soundtrack as guests strolled from one classic car to another.

Stanbic Bank’s sponsorship of the event highlighted their ongoing commitment to enhancing brand experiences and fostering meaningful connections. Speaking about the sponsorship, Patrick Mweheire, Standard Bank Group Regional Chief Executive East Africa, emphasized, “As a bank, we pride ourselves in delivering superior experiences that provide space to build meaningful connections. By delivering a top-notch event for car and motorcycle enthusiasts, we are not only advancing the motorsport landscape but also connecting people to a bespoke experience.”

He further added, “We are committed to supporting the art and culture landscape, which is why we continue to invest in experiences that nurture creativity and innovation. Further, classic and vintage cars as well as motorcycles are an asset class on their own which speaks to the Bank’s focus on savings and preservation.”

Notable entries in this year’s competition included elegant Alfa Romeo models from Rishi Chandaria and Gurvin Bassi, Hamed Ehsani’s charming 1976 Morris Minor, and Pablo Kengara’s duo of vintage gems—a 1970 Fiat 500F and a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230E.

Motorcycle enthusiasts were equally impressed by standout entries such as Captain David Mwaura and Lawrence Muchilwa on their Suzuki bikes, Gianfranco Masetto from Uganda riding a BMW R1200 GSA, and Enzo Amato with his dazzling 2002 Honda Gold Wing.

Among the seasoned competitors were Dr. Joseph Aluoch and Paul Chemng’orem, joined once again by his wife Jane. Longtime participants in the Concours, the trio continued their tradition of showcasing impeccably maintained classics, further enriching the event’s legacy of passion and preservation.

The Concours also honoured the oldest car in the competition, a 1928 Durant entered by Sachit Shah, which was named Most Elegant Car. David Odhuno’s BMW 1200 GS, manufactured in 2006, was awarded Most Elegant Bike.

A highlight of the day was the participation of Standard Bank’s Regional Chief Executive for East Africa, Patrick Mweheire, a known classic car enthusiast, who entered four cars, including a 1988 Mercedes-Benz W126.

This year, the event attracted 26 international entries from Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe. The Uganda Bikers Association and Pearl Bikers Africa once again rode from Kampala, drawing admiration from the crowd.

Adding to the excitement were impressive flypasts and the grand parade of all Concours cars and motorcycles—a visual spectacle that culminated in a finale to remember.

As the sun began to set over the Ngong Racecourse, the 52nd Africa Concours d’Elegance proved once again why it remains a beloved fixture on Kenya’s social and motorsport calendar. From vintage engines to vibrant ensembles, it was a day where heritage met high style, and families, friends, and enthusiasts came together to celebrate beauty in all its forms.

More than just a car show, the Concours is a testament to community, craftsmanship, and culture—a timeless tradition that continues to inspire, connect, and dazzle year after year.

VinieO

VinieO, Capital Lifestyle Editor, Content Creator (Radio & Social Media) & author of the personal style blog, https://vinieo.co.ke/ is an Exuberant Gentleman, whose life mantra is 'You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.'