POLOKWANE – The 17th annual Sapa Yopa Motorcycle Club rally was dedicated to raising awareness around gender-based violence, as well as drug and child abuse.

More than 5 000 bikers from across Africa gathered for the aviation-themed event, turning Limpopo into a hub of sound, colour and chrome.

Residents were treated to an unforgettable sight on Saturday as the bikers assembled at Meropa Casino and Entertainment World before embarking on a mass ride to Seshego, where they donated food parcels to the community.

The Sapa Yopa MCC is celebrated for bringing together bikers of all races, cultures and backgrounds.

It is one of the top motorcycle clubs in the southern hemisphere and the first to boast more than 40 female bikers.

The rally has grown into a major tourism driver, drawing both local and international visitors every year.

Club president Antonio Pico Santana Martins said the scale of the event continues to set it apart.

“This is one of the biggest biking events in Africa and the only one that brings together more than 5 000 bikers from across the continent. We chose the aviation theme because aviation speaks one universal language: unity, equality and moving together safely.” Martins said this year’s rally exceeded their expectations.

“For the first time in history, we had 10 African countries gathered in the heart of Limpopo. Despite the rain, everything went according to plan, including the charity run. We thank all bikers, sponsors and my exco for making this event possible.”