BY LUNGA DLAMINI
MBABANE–The Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) has launched its official mascot. The mascot, named Ngabisa, is a first-time feature at the EITF and will make regular appearances during the event between 1 and 10 September 2023. She will also be present to entertain the crowd on 2 September 2023 at the Official Opening.
Hanalora Strydom, Chairperson of the EITF Official Opening Ceremony Committee said, “We are pleased to be unveiling Ngabisa, the official Trade Fair mascot to the public. We have made the decision to have a mascot this year to add further excitement and delight for all who visit the Trade Fair. The mascot is a young female with a vibrant personality. Her youth represents the importance of developing the young minds within our population to take up the baton and continue to grow our country.
According to Strydom, her energetic character symbolizes the zeal with which we approach our mandate to enhance economic activity and trade during the EITF. The traditional nuances in her outfit including ligcebesha and the patterns on the trimming on her dress are symbolic of nuances taken from our traditional attire. She is proudly from Eswatini and represents a character that is culturally grounded. This element of her costume also speaks to the importance of remaining authentic to who we are as emaSwati as we adapt to the global changes taking place around us. Her bright eyes, smile, and friendly disposition are representative of the bright future we have ahead of us as a country. Her shoes are blue to represent the sky and yellow sunshine in their trimmings, which represents the fact that the sky is the limit for our vision as a nation. We also want to send out a message of possibility and positivity to all who meet her in line with the Trade Fair theme this year which is “Endless possibilities”. “
Over 300 exhibitors will be at the trade fair during the 10-day exhibition. The opening ceremony on 2 September, will once again be a free event where emaSwati can look forward to entertainment and business activities to kick start their EITF experience. Master KG and LwaNdlunkulu are booked for the Trade Fair Official Opening Ceremony. Other artists to join them on the line-up for 2 September include Roxkeyz, TUS, Last Born, DD Cool & Keyroll M.D, and Phiwo Sax. The price for fun fair games after 2 September will be E20 for kids and E30 for adults. There will also be other entertainment and giveaways for emaSwati to enjoy. The day will be a family-focused day that is aimed at celebrating the start of Eswatini’s biggest trade show.
During the 10 days, there will be free access to government and health services as well as information sessions and product demos. The EITF will also host a Gospel Sunday Event as well as a Spring Bash. An African Carnival, fashion show, and comedy show will also form part of the proceedings during the course of the EITF. Entry fees for entertainment will be announced in due course through social media and other platforms.
