**Jolie Lompela Boyoo and Nubea Wasido’s victory: Tshela Tractor Race highlights agricultural talent in the DRC**
Last Sunday, the Kasa-Vubu stadium in Tshela, Kongo Central, was the scene of a grandiose event: the final of the 3rd edition of the Tractor Race. Organized by the Blattner Elwyn Agri Group (GBE), this competition brilliantly highlighted the talents of agricultural drivers in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with a notable participation of women.
In the women’s category, it was Jolie Lompela Boyoo, from the Compagnie des Plantations de Ndeke, who won by completing the circuit in a remarkable time of 3 minutes 38 seconds. Her exceptional performance not only illustrated her expertise as a tractor driver, but also symbolized the commitment of women in the agricultural development of the country. Jolie Lompela Boyoo thus highlighted the importance of female participation in a traditionally male field, thus demonstrating the evolution of mentalities and opportunities offered to women in the DRC.
On the men’s side, Nubea Wasido, representing the Société de Cultures de Binga, distinguished himself by winning the competition with a record time of 2 minutes 31 seconds. His long experience as a driver, which he began at the age of 17, was a major asset in his performance. His victory highlights the importance of training and experience in the agricultural sector, highlighting the know-how and professionalism of tractor drivers in the DRC.
This Tractor Race initiative, launched in 2022 by Cédric Thaunay, Chairman of the Board of Directors of GBE Agri, aims to promote professional excellence among drivers of agricultural companies affiliated with the group. Beyond the competition, the objective is to promote the crucial role of agriculture in the economic and social development of the country. Constant Kouadio, General Manager of the Société des Cultures et Industries Agricoles au Mayumbe (SCAM), highlighted the competitive aspect of the event, while highlighting the importance of women’s participation in a booming sector.
In the presence of many personalities, including local and provincial representatives, the event was also an opportunity to highlight the agricultural projects of the GBE. The construction of new food-producing enterprises and the increase in agricultural production thanks to modern infrastructure demonstrate the group’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development in the DRC.
Beyond the competition, the Tractor Race has become an unmissable event that highlights the social commitment of agricultural enterprises in the DRC. Thanks to the support of various sponsors, such as DRC, PALMELIT, Congo Motors and Bracongo, the event actively contributes to the development of local communities through initiatives such as the construction of health and education infrastructure, road rehabilitation and support for independent farmers.
In conclusion, the Tshela Tractor Race brilliantly illustrated the excellence and professionalism of agricultural drivers in the DRC, while highlighting the importance of female participation in a key sector of the national economy. This annual event is much more than just a competition: it is a symbol of the commitment of actors in the agricultural sector to sustainable development and the empowerment of local communities.