The countdown to the 10th edition of the Embiveni Biggest Braai has begun, with organisers disclosing that they are expecting more than 10 000 patrons to flock to the Mavuso Exhibition and Trade Centre next Saturday for what is set to be one of the largest installments of the annual charity event.
This was revealed by Philani Maswati Charity Organisation Chairman Lutfo Dlamini during a sponsorship presentation meeting for the Embiveni Biggest Braai – Agape Love 10th Edition, held at the Manzini Municipal Council Chambers yesterday.
Dlamini said preparations were now at an advanced stage, with organisers leaving no stone unturned to ensure the milestone celebration delivers an unforgettable experience. He said more than 16 artists were expected to perform during the event, with South African award-winning musician Makhadzi headlining the entertainment line-up.
According to Dlamini, the announcement of Makhadzi’s performance had generated overwhelming excitement among local music lovers, prompting organisers to strengthen logistical arrangements ahead of the event.
“There has been tremendous interest from the public following the confirmation of Makhadzi. We want to ensure that everyone enjoys a spectacular performance in a safe environment,” he said.
The chairman also announced that the event would make history by hosting a sitting prime minister for the first time since its inception, as the incumbent Russell Mmiso Dlamini is expected to attend alongside other senior government dignitaries.
“This demonstrates how the Embiveni Biggest Braai has grown into a national event over the years that attracts support from every sector,” Dlamini said.
He further urged patrons who purchased tickets online to collect their wristbands from next Tuesday, warning that lost wristbands would not be replaced free of charge. “A wristband is as valuable as money. If you lose it, you will have to purchase another one,” he cautioned.
On another note, Dlamini mentioned that early bird tickets are selling for E180 and were in limited supply and as such, they were expected to sell out by Tuesday, or even earlier. Dlamini, therefore, urged members of the public to secure their tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
He also announced that all vendor stalls and exhibition spaces had already been sold out, reflecting the growing popularity of the event. He added that to ensure uninterrupted performances throughout the day and night, the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) would provide backup power.
Dlamini thanked the utility company for its continued support, saying the backup power supply has played a key role in ensuring previous editions of the event were free from power-related disruptions. He also mentioned that this year’s event will feature two exclusive VIP sections.
He said one area would accommodate invited guests, while another would host government dignitaries, including the PM and a representative of Her Majesty the Indlovukazi. He said patrons wishing to access the VIP experience will pay E680, with food being served buffet-style from 3pm until the early hours of the following morning.
Dlamini said organisers have partnered with emergency service providers, including the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital, Sobhuza Clinic and Manzini Government Hospital personnel to ensure adequate medical cover throughout the event.
He said waste management has also been carefully planned, with a recycling company assigned to collect recyclable waste, while the Municipal Council of Manzini will remove non-recyclable refuse. In addition, Dlamini mentioned that activities will begin early in the morning on Saturday, with patrons encouraged to support local vendors serving breakfast before the braai festivities get underway.
He appealed to attendees to bring their braai stands and share where possible due to limited availability. He said in one of the day’s most unique attractions, a 112-year-old woman born in 1914 has been invited to attend the event.
Dlamini joked that anyone wishing to enjoy a long life should take the opportunity to meet her and ask about the secret to her longevity. He said Village Bakers will also donate a special birthday cake for everyone celebrating their birthday on July 25.
Meanwhile, Dlamini announced that ahead of the main event, as organisers, they will host a free medical outreach programme for the elderly at Philani Maswati home for the elderly at Matjonga tomorrow, while a children’s educational programme focusing on drug abuse awareness will be held at the Mavuso Exhibition and Trade Centre on July 23.
With attendance expected to exceed 10 000 people, Dlamini said all systems are in place to deliver the biggest, safest and most memorable edition of the Embiveni Biggest Braai since its launch a decade ago.
SECURITY TIGHTENED THIS YEAR
Organisers of the year’s edition of Embiveni Biggest Braai have introduced stricter security measures to manage the anticipated crowd.
Philani Maswati Charity Organisation Chairman Lutfo Dlamini said no patron would be allowed through the main entrance (arch gate) at Mavuso Exhibition and Trade Centre without a valid wristband, a move which he said was aimed at preventing gate crashers and reducing the risk of overcrowding.
He said 10 ticket sale booths would be stationed at the main entrance to accommodate motorists and patrons who have not purchased tickets in advance. He stated that those already in possession of wristbands will use a dedicated express entrance, allowing them to bypass ticket queues.
He stated that patrons will undergo two separate security checks before accessing the main arena, while security officers and bouncers will monitor all entry points.
“Anyone attempting to gain entry through unauthorised routes will be removed from the premises. We are taking security very seriously this year. We want everyone to enjoy the event in a safe and controlled environment,” he said.
He said Top Two Security Services, supported by the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) will be deployed throughout the venue, including exit points, to deter unlawful entry.
Dlamini said to ease congestion, motorists have been urged to purchase parking tickets before the event, stating that vehicles without valid parking permits will not be allowed through the main entrance. He said traffic inside the venue would operate on a one-way system, with motorists entering through the main gate and exiting via the Toyota Leites route.
