The unveiling of Spotted Horse Rum by the Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation (RES) has struck a chord not only with the business community but also with the cultural and creative sectors.
Among those who attended the launch was Jiggs Thorne, founder and CEO of the MTN Bushfire Festival, who described the new rum as a proud Eswatini moment that blends commerce with culture.
Speaking at the launch, Thorne highlighted the importance of local products in shaping Eswatini’s story and identity.
“It’s incredibly important, and it’s something to be celebrated. I think it’s critical for us to be able to explore culture and heritage, for us to tell our own stories. And part of that is creating local products that are born in the country,” he said.
Thorne noted that House on Fire and MTN Bushfire have long embraced platforms that celebrate local identity, creativity, and sustainability.
He praised RES for venturing into the beverage industry. “I commend RES for diversifying its portfolio. They work with sugar, and there’s a natural extension into the spirits market,” he added.
The Bushfire founder, who openly described himself as a “rum guy,” tasted the product neat to fully experience its flavor. “I’m enjoying it. It’s a proud Eswatini moment for me,” he remarked.
Beyond the taste, Thorne reflected on how Spotted Horse aligns with the broader vision of creating a cultural economy in Eswatini. When asked if we are likely to see Spotted Horse Rum at one of their events, Thorne stated that they would love nothing more, but that decision rests with RES.