Traditional Horse Racing Event Spurs Economic Growth and Cultural Unity in NW

The presence of regional partners lent a cross-border dimension to the festivities, fostering a renewed sense of unity and cooperation across Southern Africa.

The North West province came alive over the weekend with the successful hosting of the inaugural Lobelo la Dipitsi Traditional Horse Racing event at the Bloomtech Lodge in Vryburg. This vibrant celebration of heritage and entrepreneurship not only highlighted the region’s deep cultural roots but also underscored the transformative power of traditional sports in stimulating local economies.

Organized under the banner of the North West Provincial Government (NWPG), the event attracted a diverse crowd of visitors from all corners of the province and neighboring countries, including Botswana, Namibia, and Lesotho. The presence of regional partners lent a cross-border dimension to the festivities, fostering a renewed sense of unity and cooperation across Southern Africa.

Cultural Heritage Meets Economic Development

At the heart of Lobelo la Dipitsi was the race itself—a traditional horse racing spectacle rooted in the indigenous practices of rural communities. Horses, riders, and spectators gathered in full regalia, creating a breathtaking tapestry of color, tradition, and community spirit. The event wasn’t just about speed and stamina—it was a powerful expression of identity, heritage, and pride.

However, beyond the cultural spectacle lay a deeper purpose. The event was designed as a strategic platform to advance economic transformation, empower local entrepreneurs, and drive tourism in the province. According to the North West Provincial Government, the integration of traditional sports like horse racing into mainstream economic development strategies marks a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to harness indigenous culture for long-term growth.

Showcasing Local Enterprise

A standout feature of the event was the Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMME) exhibition, a dynamic marketplace coordinated with the support of the Department of Economic Development, Conservation, Environment, and Tourism (DEDECT), in partnership with the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality.

The exhibition boasted 69 stalls featuring a rich variety of locally-produced goods. Visitors could browse handcrafted African-themed fashion, unique leatherwork, footwear, organic herbal remedies, spices, bespoke perfumes, and wooden home décor pieces—all designed and made by local artisans and informal traders. This showcase was a testament to the province’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and the untapped potential of grassroots businesses.

During a walkabout at the flea market, DEDECT MEC Bitsa Lenkopane engaged personally with traders to understand their business needs and challenges. She reaffirmed the department’s commitment to providing ongoing support to ensure that products meet industry standards, including proper packaging, branding, and compliance with the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS).

Government Support and Future Plans

Premier Lazarus Mokgosi and MEC Lenkopane officiated the prize-giving ceremony, lauding the participants and partners who made the event a success. In her address, Lenkopane highlighted the dual purpose of the event, noting that it serves both as a celebration of the province’s rich heritage and as a robust vehicle for inclusive economic development.

“This is not just a horse race; it is a platform for transformation,” said Lenkopane. “Through the North West Gambling Board, we plan to empower emerging race associations by helping them navigate compliance requirements and acquire relevant licenses. We are laying the foundation for a sustainable and regulated racing economy.”

She also emphasized the role of public-private partnerships in creating sustainable development opportunities. “The economic activity generated here reaffirms our belief that collaboration between government and private sector players is key to unlocking the full potential of our communities,” she added.

Youth Empowerment and Regional Integration

The event was particularly notable for the participation of young riders, many of whom represented rural equestrian clubs and training programs. Their presence symbolized not only the preservation of tradition but also the importance of youth empowerment and skills development in the sporting sector.

Lenkopane also celebrated the involvement of regional riders and partners from neighboring countries, acknowledging the growing potential for Lobelo la Dipitsi to serve as a catalyst for cross-border tourism and cultural exchange.

“This event is planting seeds of regional unity,” she said. “I am confident that Lobelo la Dipitsi will become a flagship attraction on our tourism calendar, drawing visitors from across the continent.”

A Model for Sustainable Development

With the backing of key sponsors such as GBets, Goldrush, Sunbets, and CGM, the event demonstrated what can be achieved through a shared vision and strategic investment. Sponsors were thanked for their unwavering commitment to promoting community-based initiatives and investing in local talent and infrastructure.

Lobelo la Dipitsi is expected to become an annual event, rotating through the province’s various districts. This rotational model ensures that the economic and cultural benefits are equitably distributed, promoting inclusive growth, regional integration, and deeper community engagement.

As the dust settles on the racetrack, what remains is a legacy of pride, purpose, and progress. The North West province has proven that tradition and innovation can ride side by side, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for its people.