Swazi Observer

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E200 000 BIKE UP FOR GRABS

By Mgcini Dube | 2022-08-05

AFTER two years, one of the most exciting biking events, Swazi Rally has been officially launched.

The event will take place from September 2 - 4.

The launch was held at Riders Ranch yesterday.

Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Moses Vilakati shared that the 29th edition would be one of the memorable editions as one lucky patron would walk away with a motorbike worth E200 000.

Vilakati also noted the importance of the event and he said country financially benefitted between E35 million to E40 million annually

“Swazi Rally brings people from all over the SADC region and some travel from as far as overseas, this event stimulates many industries in our country, from the local informal vendors, guest houses, hotels, restaurants, filling stations, eateries, entertainment venues, game parks, crafts and many more. We commend the organisers of this event for hosting the 29th anniversary of Swazi Rally,” he said.
He assured bike lovers a safe event and also pleaded with the public to take care of guest bikers.

“For the bikers, enjoy the Swazi Rally and being with friends that you have not seen in the past two years. We would like to ensure that the rally is successful with the best entertainment and activities that it is known for and request all members of the public to enjoy responsibly,” he said.

The organiser, Carlos Paiva, said they had more sponsors this year, the likes of MTN, Galp, Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accident Fund and WesBank. He also thanked the sponsors for their support.

Heart warming

“This year it will be bigger and better and it is heart warming to get sponsors during these difficult times. COVID-19 really halted so many plans. We are grateful to have more sponsors this year, MTN is our new sponsor and we wish them all the best,” he said.

Paiva also noted that they would be contributing to the Woman Farmer Foundation and other charities that bikers groups work with.

Executive Head Retail of WesBank Zilindile Friedman said they were honoured to partner with Swazi Rally.

“As FNB, we are delighted to once again partner with the Swazi Rally. We see this as an event that connects people and communities, it promotes tourism in the country and stimulates the economy. The Bank is sponsoring the motorbike worth E200 000 to be won at the event. We are looking forward to a successful and safe Swazi Rally,” he said.

Brian Carrington from Swazi Boy expressed his excitement; he spoke on behalf of bikers.
“We are excited about the show and we are glad that the dust has settled and things are back to normal. We will be having bikers from other countries,” he added.

For the past two years the rally was unlocking domestic tourism by visiting different locations in the country.

Last year, participants were required to register with Riders Ranch and pay an entry fee of E150 per person.

One hundred per cent of proceeds were donated to the Woman Farmer Foundation which is an organisation that empowers women and girls through agriculture.

More information about the rally will soon be shared.

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