Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Tourism Correspondent
A FRESH sense of pride and possibility now sweeps through Mutare, thanks to the stunning transformation of the Mutare Sports Club – an upgrade that has, not only reshaped the city’s landscape, but has also invigorated tourism, business travel, and community leisure.
Once a modest sporting facility, Mutare Sports Club now gleams with excellent enhancements following a major facelift ahead of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo which was held in September this year.
And long after the international event concluded, the venue continues to draw attention, hosting business meetings, family events, corporate retreats, and international visitors eager to experience its renewed charm.
The refurbished club has set both Mutare and the wider Manicaland Province on a remarkable new trajectory, firmly placing them on the domestic and international tourism map.
Visitors instantly notice the metamorphosis, beginning with the upgraded pavilions and exhibition spaces, which now meet international standards and provide a professional setting for conferences, exhibitions, and large-scale events.
The surrounding grounds have been transformed through modern landscaping, with lush gardens, flowering plants, and newly planted trees creating an inviting and serene environment. Rehabilitated access roads now make the club more accessible, ensuring smooth entry for guests and visitors.
Expanded and neatly paved parking areas accommodate larger crowds with ease, while additional fully modernised ablution blocks enhance convenience and comfort, making the venue suitable for both private and public events.
These improvements have transformed the facility into a bona fide international exhibition centre – one capable of hosting private and public events of any scale and stature.
The cricket grounds, complete with a beautifully designed commentary section, have become a point of admiration, blending sporting heritage with contemporary elegance.
One of the standout additions is the new upmarket restaurant, now a favourite among visitors. With its blend of traditional dishes and exotic cuisines, it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a refined yet relaxed setting.
A chic bar and lounge offer the perfect hideaway for both private and business conversations, making the venue a natural choice for corporate networking and intimate gatherings.
Nature lovers are equally enchanted. A gentle stroll around the club reveals newly planted trees and blooming flowers that attract a variety of indigenous and exotic bird species. With every visit, the space offers a refreshing escape into tranquility – right in the heart of the city. Events now unfold almost every week, creating a lively, “feel-good” environment that locals and tourists alike have embraced.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Honourable Barbara Rwodzi praised the refurbishment as a long-term investment set to serve Mutare well beyond the expo. She credited the seamless execution of the project to strong collaboration across Government institutions.
Grand Reef Aerodrome also underwent a remarkable upgrade. Its runway was resurfaced, the passenger terminal modernised, and navigational systems improved to ensure the safe return of scheduled flights. Access roads were rehabilitated, giving travellers a smooth, scenic route into Mutare as there is also a new 30-minute domestic flight introduced between the two cities.
Visitors now enjoy multiple, convenient travel options that make exploring Manicaland easier than ever.
Minister Rwodzi has consistently stated that with the successful hosting of the expo, authorities and tourism players are confident that Manicaland now stands firmly as one of Zimbabwe’s premier destinations.
“These developments enhance connectivity, create lasting tourism infrastructure, and provide a strong foundation for sustained economic growth in the province,” she said.
Said one patron, Rose-Sharon Sithole: “I was amazed at how beautiful and well-organised everything is. The gardens, the facilities, even the parking it all makes visitors feel welcome and comfortable. There is now need for extensive marketing and advertising of the place and it is everyone’s duty to do so.
‘‘People may be used to know about the old Mutare Sports Club, but this is completely a different one. The place is remarkable.”
Another visitor, Mercy Sibanda, added: “Walking around the club was such a peaceful experience.
‘‘The new landscaping and birdlife really make it feel like a retreat, right in the city. It is the perfect spot for both business and leisure.
‘‘The restaurant and bar area is cozy, clean and it’s giving international stuff.”
