Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata recently in BINGA
THE morning sun sparkles on the turquoise waters of Kariba Dam, casting golden yellow beams across the sandy shores of Binga Beach.
Children squeal with delight as they dash into the shallow waves, splashing water into the air. Families set up colourful umbrellas and picnic mats under acacia trees, while small wooden rafts drift lazily along the dam, offering visitors a glimpse of the vast, glimmering waters that stretch for miles.
Once a quiet and largely overlooked corner of Zimbabwe, Binga Beach has emerged as a vibrant tourism hub, drawing visitors from across the country.
The transformation is credited to the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), whose careful management ensures that the beach remains clean, safe and sustainable.
“It is unbelievable that such beauty exists right here in Zimbabwe,” said Ms Tendai Chikafu, a visitor from Harare.
“I drove for over 10 hours just to escape the city for the weekend. The water is clean, the air is fresh and the staff here are friendly. Binga Beach is a hidden gem.”
For locals, the influx of tourists has brought not just excitement, but also much-needed economic opportunities.
Street vendors line parts of the beach, selling grilled fish, traditional snacks and handmade crafts.
Small businesses offering boat rides, guided fishing trips and watersport experiences have cropped up, giving residents a chance to earn a living, while showcasing the natural beauty of their home.
“Before the tourists started coming here, life was very quiet,” said Mrs Margaret Dube, a local craftswoman.
“Now, I can sell my jewellery, baskets and souvenirs directly to visitors. It is helping me put food on the table for my children and it feels good knowing people appreciate the work I do. Tourism is really changing Binga for the better.”
The beach has also inspired local youth to explore entrepreneurial opportunities.
Mr Patrick Moyo (24) runs a small boat ride business along the dam, taking visitors on scenic trips across the sparkling waters.
“I never imagined I could make a living on the water,” he said.
“Every weekend, people from Harare, Bulawayo and even international visitors come here. It gives me independence and it shows that we have something special to offer.”
ZimParks has played a pivotal role in ensuring the site remains sustainable.
Regular beach clean-ups, waste management programmes and safety measures are in place to preserve the natural environment while providing visitors with a safe and enjoyable experience.
Rangers and staff patrol the area, answer questions, and share information about the local flora and fauna, helping tourists understand the ecological importance of Kariba Dam and its surroundings.
Tourists are quick to notice the difference.
“I have been to several beaches, but Binga Beach feels untouched,” said Ms Miriam Ncube, a visitor from Gweru.
“It is peaceful, and it is clear that the local community benefits from our visits. That makes every trip here feel meaningful. We aren’t just sightseeing – we are supporting people’s livelihoods.”
Beyond the economic benefits, Binga Beach is fostering a sense of pride in the community. For residents, the site is more than just a tourist attraction – it is a symbol of what their home has to offer and the opportunities that tourism can bring.
“We are proud of our community,” said Mrs Dube.
“When visitors come, they remind us that what we have here is special. They help us keep our culture alive, support our families and show the world that Binga has something beautiful to offer.”
Local schools have also started incorporating visits to Binga Beach into their curriculum, allowing students to learn about environmental conservation, tourism management and local culture.
“It is inspiring for our children to see that their home can be both beautiful and economically important,” said Mr John Chikondo, a teacher at Binga Secondary School.
“They learn that preserving our environment benefits everyone.”
The beach has even begun attracting regional tourists. Over recent months, visitors from neighbouring Zambia and other Southern African countries have arrived in Binga, seeking a tranquil getaway.
Guest houses, lodges and informal accommodation options have adapted to meet growing demand, providing more employment opportunities and diversifying the local economy.
Local restaurants have also felt the impact.
“Tourism has boosted our sales tremendously,” said Mr Steven Moyo, owner of a small eatery near the beach.
“We now prepare more fish, local dishes, and snacks to cater for the tourists and this has allowed us to hire extra staff. People are learning that Binga can be a destination that suits everyone.”
Despite its growing popularity, Binga Beach remains a peaceful retreat.
The vastness of the dam, the gentle slope of the beach and the surrounding hills create a sense of seclusion. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing while taking in the expansive views.
Ms Chikafu said the best part of the experience is just sitting by the water.
“It is therapeutic. You forget about city stress. And knowing that our visit helps the local people makes it even more rewarding,” she said.
Visitors also enjoyed shopping for handmade crafts, trying local foods and taking guided boat trips across the dam.
Many come prepared with picnic baskets, sunscreen and cameras to capture the stunning sunsets. Mr Patrick Moyo, the boat guide, loves showing visitors around and seeing their reactions.
“Every ride is a chance to create memories and show them the beauty of our home,” he said.
As the sun sets over Kariba Dam, painting the water in shades of gold and crimson, the sound of laughter, conversation and waves fills the air.
Binga Beach is no longer just a quiet spot on the map – it is a place of opportunity, pride and community transformation.
For locals, the beach represents hope and resilience.
“We have learned that we don’t have to wait for someone else to develop our area,” Mrs Dube said.
“With our natural resources and hard work, we can create something meaningful. Binga Beach shows that tourism can lift communities and bring people together.”
Binga Beach’s story is one of beauty, community and economic empowerment.
Visitors like Ms Ncube and Chikafu leave with more than just photographs – they leave with memories, appreciation for the locals and a sense of having contributed to a community that is proud of its culture and landscape.
In Binga, the waves of Kariba Dam do more than reflect the sun – they reflect opportunity, hope and a brighter future for the people who call this remarkable place home.
