Moffat Mungazi
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
TRADITIONAL leaders in Manicaland have been challenged to seize the opportunity presented by the upcoming Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Tourism Expo, slated for September this year, to market their cultures and transform their communities into cultural tourism hubs.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza emphasised the vital role traditional leaders play in promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage during the provincial culture month launch at Chief Zimunya’s homestead, last Friday.
He urged traditional leaders to take centre stage in showcasing the country’s diverse cultural heritage, which can drive economic development, unity, and rural transformation.
Minister Mugadza said the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Tourism Expo — a premier tourism platform — should, not only cater for hoteliers and mainstream tourism players, but also serve as an opportunity for traditional leaders and their communities to showcase their cultural capital to the world.
“We have an international tourism expo coming right on our doorstep — which is a chance for traditional leaders to step up and present the customs, traditions, crafts, cuisine, and heritage of their people. Let us capitalise on this. Culture is no longer just an identity marker. It is a currency, and we can use it to develop our communities,” he said.
Minister Mugadza said the global tourism trend now favours immersive cultural experiences, positioning Zimbabwe’s traditional institutions, led by chiefs, for significant opportunities.
“Chiefs must champion cultural tourism in their jurisdictions. Their unparalleled knowledge of customs, sacred sites, and our people’s history can drive rural development, and contribute to achieving Vision 2030, if properly promoted,” he said.
Minister Mugadza said cultural tourism celebrates heritage in ways that bring pride, knowledge, and economic benefits to communities.
“Culture is the heartbeat of development, encompassing more than just our attire or language. It is about building a future that honours our past, celebrates our present, and welcomes tomorrow’s promise. May our cultural practices never be perceived as backward, but rather as a proud celebration of our identity. We are our culture,” he said.
Minister Mugadza said traditional leaders can transform their communities into tourism hubs and drivers of rural prosperity with proper support and planning.
Chief Zimunya echoed the call to embrace cultural tourism, highlighting the upcoming tourism expo as an opportunity for communities to reclaim and redefine their cultural narratives for local and international audiences.
“We must prepare for the expo. Teach your children about our heritage. Culture is not just the past — it is the future we build when we stay rooted. Losing our culture risks losing our nation’s soul. Culture gives children discipline, identity, and pride, keeping them grounded,” said Chief Zimunya.
He expressed concerns over the erosion of cultural knowledge among youths, linking it to rising social issues like drug abuse and moral decay.
“Our parents taught us values that shaped us. Now it is our turn to pass those values on. If we do not, we will raise a lost generation,” he warned. Chief Hata of Nyanga added his voice, calling on Zimbabweans to promote traditional medicine as part of indigenous knowledge systems that have sustained communities for generations.
“Let us celebrate and embrace our culture, including traditional medicine, rather than destroying and forgetting it,” he said.
Provincial head for the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Mr Clifford Mujoko said the commemorations offered a timely opportunity for families and communities to reconnect with their heritage.
“This programme is about rediscovery and pride, starting in the home where children learn about their roots. By doing so, we will protect our cultural and heritage sites with a deeper understanding of their significance,” he said.
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