…Minister Tourism says more hotels are needed
BY DELISA THWALA
MANZINI– The Swazi Rally, where motorcyclists convene to do all things bike-related, is turning 30 years old in this year’s edition, which will take place on September 1-3, 2023.
The 30th edition of the Swazi Rally was launched today by the Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Moses Vilakati at Riders Ranch in Sidvokodvo.
Speaking during the launch, Minister Vilakati expressed an immense appreciation for the Rally’s contribution to the Eswatini economy, employment and mostly tourism.
“We are excited once again that the Swazi Rally is up and going this year. This will now be their 30th edition where we are looking at over 7000 bikers. We want it to be bigger because it attracts lots of bikers from all over SADC and some actually come outside of the SADC region so this is very exciting to look forward to,” said Vilakati.
He added that the Swazi Rally is one of the key events which promote tourism in the country.
“As we have explained over a few months that all the activities that will stimulate tourism should be allowed to proceed this year. This is one of those activities which we believe can make a huge impact on the tourism sector,” added Minister Vilakati.
Echoing the Minister’s sentiments, Swazi Rally Director Carlos Paiva revealed that
“Most of the benefits of the Swazi Rally have got nothing to do with what happens here, it’s about what happens in Eswatini. So when we start at the border, everybody leaves road tax at the border, everybody has put fuel in the vehicles whether it’s motorcycles or motor cars, everybody has to eat so the eateries, everybody has to sleep there are hotels and guest houses, they have to buy things to take back home,” he said.
The 30th edition of the Swazi Rally will be held at the Rider’s Ranch in Sidvokodvo, and further details will be communicated.
