In the sun-drenched heart of Tanzania, a dream was dying. The annual Iringa rally, an event that brought together speed enthusiasts from across the continent, was on the brink of cancellation due to a lack of funds. The news hit the rally community hard, but it struck one man, Maisam, particularly deeply.
Maisam had been a passionate rally addict for years, his love for the sport ingrained in him since he was a boy following up on each and every event. For him, the rally was more than just an event; it was a legacy. Determined not to let it slip away, Maisam took a bold step. He decided to harness the power of social media, particularly a popular WhatsApp group where drivers, fans, and sponsors often mingle and share their thoughts.
The group, “Rally Tanzania,” was buzzing with disappointment and resignation. Maisam, however, saw it as an opportunity. He began with a simple, heartfelt message:
“Hi everyone, it’s Maisam. I know we’re all devastated by the news about this year’s Iringa Rally, but I believe we can still make it happen. We need to come together, pool our resources,and show that our community can support what we love. Let’s start a campaign to save our motorsport!”
The reaction was immediate. Messages of support flooded in, and Maisam quickly followed up with a plan. He proposed creating a fundraising campaign, leveraging the group’s diverse connections to seek sponsorships, donations, and even small contributions from rally fans worldwide.
Maisam worked tirelessly, coordinating efforts, creating sponsorship proposals and ensuring the GoFundMe page was compelling. He shared stories of past rallies, highlighting their impact on the local economy and community. He posted photos and videos of thrilling race and behind-the-scenes moments, reminding everyone of the rally’s vibrant spirit.
Members of the group began to chip in, sharing the campaign across various platforms, contacting media outlets to raise awareness and funds. Local businesses offered their support, from sponsoring fuel and parts to lodging for participants. International brands,seeing the groundswell of grassroots support, began to take notice.
As days turned into weeks, the campaign gained momentum. Sponsors started pouring in from unexpected places among them was Euro cables (Maisam’s dad’s factory), and the group’s enthusiasm became infectious. Maisam’s relentless drive and the community’s unity paid off as the fundraising goal drew closer.
“I felt there’s a need to help the growth of Motorsport in Tanzania and I had to come in first to cast the stone and I’ve succeeded with the sponsorship from Euro Cables (my dad’s factory) for Iringa Motorsport club towards NRC 1, Tanga Rally will be sponsored by Advent constructions, Morogoro rally by Imperial Royal Haulage, Arusha rally by Olympic petroleum… And we shall make sure all these sponsors get the best mileage out of the gesture.
The year 2025 is trying hard to see KCB Bank coming on board and Petronas if they can stand in for the whole season.
Maisam added, “I am not saying it’s a done deal because nothing has been reached yet but I am making efforts and I hope to do wonders next year. We can’t just look on seeing rallying in Tanzania dying, all the mentioned clubs are working swiftly with those respective sponsors mentioned to prepare for the next rounds since everything is in place now.”
Am here to save Motorsport in Tanzania and that’s how the work has started.” said Maisam in his chat with Hapasport.
“My next agenda will be hosting the Ugandan and Kenyan drivers in our NRC so that we can get more exposure as they teach us more. We only hope for the best.” he emphasized.
As drivers revved their engines and prepared to race , Maisam knew this NRC was more than just a competition. It was a testament to the power of determination, community, and the shared love of a sport that brought people together. The National Rally Championship roared back to life, not just as a race competition but as a symbol of what could be achieved when people come together for a common cause.
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