EMBIVENI BIGGEST BRAAI LIVES UP TO PROMISE

MANZINI – As promised by the organisers, patrons were treated to a great time at this year’s Embiveni Biggest Braai.

This year’s eighth edition of the event saw over 2 000 of emaSwati from across the country transforming the venue into a vibrant hub of celebration and business. Gates opened as early as 6am, allowing stall owners ample time to set up for a day that promised both enjoyment and economic upliftment. Notably, the event got a change of name this year, from being ‘Biggest Braai’ to ‘Embiveni Biggest Braai’ , due to the newly-forged partnership between Philani Maswati Charity Organisation (the host) and Embiveni Meats.

Invaluable support

The Manzini Regional Administrator Prince Chief Gija kicked off the event with welcoming remarks, expressing gratitude to the sponsors for their invaluable support. “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to each and every one present here today. This event is important as it brings emaSwati together, enjoying themselves while also uplifting their businesses,” he said. Manzini Mayor Goodwill Dlamini echoed this sentiment, highlighting the city’s pride in hosting the annual event. “As the proud host of the eighth edition of Embiveni Biggest Braai, we indeed affirm our biggest pride through this event,” the mayor stated, highlighting the event’s significance to the local community.

Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Simelane emphasised the broader impact of such events on international relations. “Embiveni Biggest Braai is one of the most celebrated events in the country, as it brings tourists from all over the world, extending and strengthening our relations with them. These relations also help reduce crime between countries, as they will protect each other,” she said. The minister also highlighted the event’s contribution to the economy, particularly for small business owners.

In a gesture of community spirit, The Village Baker delivered on their promise by providing a cake for all those born in July. EmaSwati born in July, especially around the 20th, took to the stage to share the cake with the Minister of Health, Mduduzi Matsebula and Philani Maswati Chairman Lutfo Dlamini, adding a personal touch to the festivities.Entertainment was abundant, with local artists and DJs captivating the crowd throughout the day. Local artist Mshikishi proved to be a major draw, as his hit song ‘Wash’umkhukhu’ prompted a mass migration to the  front of the stage, where fans sang along enthusiastically.

Energy high

DJs Obsession and Lady Zee also kept the energy high with their popular sets, ensuring the dance floor remained packed. One would think this event only had circular musicians but Gospel music was also served. Linda Dlamini was joined by Nothando Dlamini to take patrons to church. They opened the stage for local male ensemble, the Police Gospel Messengers.
The event would not have been a hit without its mainstay: the spin show, where drag racers showcased their skills in the ring. Team Swazi, a popular spin association burnt some tyres and entertained the crowd with their spin drills. The kidszone was also a hive of activity, with children’s games such as horse-riding, quad biking and jumping castles keeping the young ones entertained.

The Embiveni Biggest Braai not only provided a platform for fun and entertainment, but also reinforced the importance of community, culture, and economic growth. With heartfelt speeches, engaging activities and a spirit of unity, the event successfully brought together emaSwati from all walks of life, celebrating their shared heritage and looking forward to a prosperous future.

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