‘Park and Ride’ initiative enhances safe festival experience
BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE– Galp Eswatini has reaffirmed its commitment to community safety and social impact through its continued partnership with the MTN Bushfire Festival, returning for the second consecutive year as a sponsor.
Through this collaboration, Galp Eswatini aims to contribute to the festival’s wide-reaching impact, which includes supporting local creatives, empowering youth and advancing community development initiatives. The festival is well known for channelling proceeds into projects that drive meaningful change, from arts development to social inclusion programmes.
Driving safety through transport solutions
This year, Galp Eswatini is sponsoring the festival’s ‘Park and Ride’ initiative, a key programme designed to provide more than 20 000 revellers with safe and reliable transport to and from the event.
The initiative plays a crucial role in reducing road accidents often linked to fatigue and drink-driving, helping festivalgoers enjoy the experience responsibly while prioritising safety.
The partnership aligns with the company’s strong focus on road safety, which remains central to its operations.
“Road safety is our focus because safety is our licence to operate,” said Phumlani Ndwandwe, emphasising the company’s commitment to protecting lives both on and off the road.
Creating meaningful community experiences
Under the theme, “Together we create the best energy,” the partnership goes beyond logistics to actively engage the public.
As part of this year’s campaign, eight families will have the opportunity to win weekend packages to the festival, each including tickets for two adults and two children. The initiative is aimed at creating shared experiences rooted in culture, creativity and community connection.
For Galp Eswatini, the Bushfire partnership continues to serve as a powerful platform to extend its Corporate Social Investment (CSI) efforts, aligning with initiatives that deliver tangible benefits to communities.
Supporting sustainable festival operations
Bongani Dlamini highlighted that Galp serves as the festival’s official energy partner, supporting both operational efficiency and sustainability efforts.
“A key component of the partnership is the Park n’ Ride shuttle service, which encourages festivalgoers to leave their vehicles and utilise shared transport, helping to reduce traffic congestion and fuel consumption,” he said.
Dlamini added that Galp also supports the festival’s food and beverage ecosystem by providing gas to traders, ensuring safe, efficient and reliable energy for operations.
Commitment to safety and impact
By promoting responsible transport and supporting sustainable practices, Galp Eswatini is playing a vital role in enhancing safety while contributing to the success of one of the country’s most celebrated cultural events.
The partnership reflects a broader commitment to community wellbeing, demonstrating how corporate initiatives can positively influence both social and environmental outcomes.
As the festival continues to grow, collaborations such as this highlight the importance of shared responsibility in creating safe, inclusive and impactful experiences for all.
(Courtesy Pic)
