As engines rev ahead of a major car-spinning showcase at Mbombela Stadium in the Mpumalanga capital, provincial officials are betting that the spectacle can do more than entertain but help drive tourism and unlock income for local small businesses.
The Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism, led by MEC Jesta Sidell, has framed the event as part of a broader push to grow township tourism while supporting SMMEs.
But on the ground, traders and tourism operators say the outcome will depend on one thing: whether inclusion is planned or assumed.
A township culture meets tourism strategy
Car spinning, long rooted in township culture, has evolved into a nationally recognised motorsport that attracts fans, content creators, and visitors from across provinces.
By partnering with Sam Sam Team Numbi, the provincial government hopes to package the event as a tourism product, one that showcases local culture while driving spending in surrounding communities.
“We are looking at this event not just as entertainment, but as a tourism and economic activation platform. It must create real opportunities for SMMEs from food vendors to accommodation providers so that local communities benefit directly,” said Sidell.
For traders operating near the stadium, the expected influx of spectators signals potential income but also uncertainty.
“We see the crowds, but we don’t always see the money. If you are not inside the main trading area, people don’t reach you. We need proper space and permits, not just promises,” said Thandi Nkambule, a street food vendor in Mbombela.
Her concern highlights a recurring issue in event-driven economies: access to high-footfall trading zones.
Beyond the stadium, the event could generate broader tourism benefits, including demand for accommodation, transport, and local experiences.
Guesthouses in areas like Kanyamazane and Matsulu are already preparing for increased bookings.
“When there’s an event, we get calls from visitors looking for affordable places to stay, but marketing is still a challenge. Many visitors don’t know about township accommodation options,” said guesthouse owner Nomsa Mthethwa.
The involvement of Sam Sam Team Numbi, known for its strong following in townships, could help bridge that gap, but execution will be critical.
“If done right, this can position Mbombela as a hub for motorsport tourism; if done poorly, it becomes just another event where locals watch others make money,” said Sibusiso Dlamini, an entrepreneur in Gamu.
For Mbombela, the car spinning event is a test of whether township culture can be converted into inclusive economic growth.
