Kilombero Sugar, in collaboration with 17 climbers from 8 diverse countries of operation, representing ABF Sugar and Illovo Sugar Africa, has commenced the ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest peak, as part of the Kilimanjaro Expedition Initiative.

 The group kicked off their journey early in the morning through the Rongai Route, with a dedicated commitment to honoring Mandela's legacy and raising funds and awareness to end Period Poverty. Each climber was thoughtfully selected to epitomize the rich diversity of Illovo Sugar, encapsulating various geographies, ethnicities, genders, ages, religions, business levels, and functions.

 The send-off ceremony was graced with the presence of Rombo District Commissioner, Hon. Raymond Mangwala, accompanied by a representative from Kilombero Sugar who served as the host from the country.

 During the send-off ceremony, Hon. Raymond Mangwala, the Rombo District Commissioner, congratulated all climbers for choosing the Rongai route, emphasizing its suitability for accommodating multiple climbers simultaneously and its ease of access. Mr. Mangwala further expressed the government's unwavering commitment to support and facilitate the tourism sector, ensuring a conducive and favourable environment for tourism activities.

 As the guest of honour at the send-off event, Hon. Mangwala commended the climbers for embarking on the Mount Kilimanjaro Summit expedition, using this platform to raise funds for addressing Period Poverty in Tanzanian and other communities where these companies operate, demonstrating a vision of community prosperity and progress.

Addressing the gathering at the send-off function, Mr. Fimbo Butallah, the Commercial Director of Kilombero Sugar, emphasized the company's significant role as the host country in ensuring the successful and noble cause of scaling Mount Kilimanjaro. He underscored the importance of showcasing diversity and inclusion through the participation of the diverse group of climbers, highlighting Tanzania's beauty as the host country and Mount Kilimanjaro as a tourist attraction aligned with conscience and purpose.  

Mr. Fimbo entrusted Kilombero Sugar's renowned brand product, 'Bwana Sukari,' to two Tanzanian representatives to place atop Mount Kilimanjaro, symbolizing the product's quality, market presence, and eminence amid the mountains. Kilombero Sugar extends its heartfelt wishes to all climbers for a secure, pleasurable, and remarkable experience in Tanzania.

On the other hand, the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), a key partner in the Kilimanjaro Expedition, represented by Tourist Officer Mr. Michael Ndaisaba, views this opportunity as a gateway to enhancing tourism attractions in the country and is committed to supporting initiatives that bolster the sustainability of the tourism sector.

Kilombero Sugar, an Illovo Sugar Company, remains steadfast in fostering community well-being through initiatives like the Kilimanjaro Expedition, aimed at combatting period poverty. As part of this commitment, the company has generously donated 2400 sanitary pads to Mieresini Secondary School located in Moshi, Kilimanjaro.