TANZANIAN drivers Manveer Bird and Manmeet Bird of the Fuchs Titan Rally Team emerged victorious in the NBC Iringa Mkwawa Rally 2025, held over the weekend in Iringa.

The thrilling two-day motorsport event drew a vibrant mix of local and international participants, reinforcing the rally’s role as a catalyst for both sports and economic development in Tanzania.

A large crowd of enthusiastic spectators turned out, demonstrating strong local interest in motorsports and underscoring Iringa’s growing potential as a dynamic venue for major events.

The rally was officially launched by Iringa District Commissioner Kheri James, who also presided over the closing ceremony. In his remarks, he extended warm congratulations to the bank and all stakeholders for their successful collaboration.

"The rally has not only captivated Iringa residents but has also inspired them in meaningful ways," James said. "It created a valuable platform for showcasing and selling local products and services - from accommodations to traditional cuisine - boosting tourism and local enterprise in the region."

Looking ahead, he expressed confidence in the rally’s growth trajectory:

"With the bank’s unwavering dedication and the increasing enthusiasm for sports, I firmly believe next year’s rally will be even bigger and more impactful for our community."

Abel Kaseko, the bank’s head of products and sales, echoed this optimism, emphasizing the event’s contribution to promoting local tourism. He revealed plans to build on the momentum of the 2025 rally to spotlight the Iringa region’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions.

"We are committed to using platforms like the Iringa Mkwawa Rally to highlight the region’s tourism gems, including the stunning Ruaha National Park - Tanzania’s largest national park," Kaseko said.

He further stressed that tourism not only stimulates the broader economy but also unlocks business opportunities and job creation across multiple sectors.

Kaseko also praised the teamwork behind the rally’s success, citing the contributions of government officials, rally organizers, drivers, and fans:

"Events like these go beyond competition—they foster unity, strengthen community ties, and create avenues for shared development."

Hidaya Kamanga, the rally’s Clerk of the Course, echoed the appreciation for the bank’s support and the collective effort that brought the event to life.

"Thanks to the strong support from the main sponsor and our partners, we were able to organize an event that exceeded expectations," Kamanga noted. However, she also highlighted a persistent challenge in the sport - many talented drivers still struggle to secure sponsorship, limiting their participation.

Champion Manveer Bird expressed gratitude to the organizers and sponsors for a memorable rally experience:

"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved for putting together such a spectacular event. Competing against such skilled drivers really pushed us to our limits, and I truly enjoyed the challenge."