Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Masvingo
A SYMBOLIC water-cannon salute welcomed national flag carrier Air Zimbabwe to Masvingo here on Saturday morning as the airline commenced daily direct flights between Harare and Masvingo, in a major boost to tourism and business connectivity in the province.
The aircraft touched down at Masvingo Airport at 8:08am carrying 39 international buyers, as the province prepares to host the 19th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo from September 9 to 12.
Three flights are scheduled for today.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi, Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Ezra Chadzamira, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority chief executive Dr George Manyaya and other tourism stakeholders were at the airport to welcome the inaugural flight.
The ceremonial water-cannon salute marked the beginning of what tourism stakeholders hope will be a new chapter for Masvingo, with improved air connectivity expected to enhance access to the province for tourists, business travellers and investors.
Minister Rwodzi said the inaugural flight was a major boost for the tourism sector.
“In tourism, connectivity is very key and we are so happy to have witnesses the first group of international buyers. This is great growth of our Industry,” she said.
The daily service is expected to complement road transport by providing a faster link between Harare and Masvingo, making it easier for visitors to include the province in their Zimbabwean travel itineraries.
The development also comes at a strategic time as Government and tourism authorities intensify efforts to position Masvingo as a competitive tourism and investment destination ahead of Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe.
The expo will be held at the Gymkhana Grounds in Masvingo City and is expected to bring together international buyers, exhibitors, tourism operators and other industry stakeholders.
Bongani Ndlovu