Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Mutare
The recent refurbishment of Grand Reef Aerodrome in Mutare which has already borne fruit with the reintroduction of scheduled Air Zimbabwe flights between Harare and Mutare, has been described as a game changer marking a significant milestone in efforts to improve domestic connectivity and bolster tourism in the Eastern Highlands.
The long-dormant airstrip, which had been idle since 1980, has undergone a major facelift under government’s broader infrastructure modernisation drive.
During a post Cabinet briefing on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, confirmed that the revived facility has facilitated the resumption of air services to Manicaland’s provincial capital.
“This refurbishment has already facilitated the reintroduction of Air Zimbabwe flights between Harare and Mutare. The restoration of air connectivity is a game changer for the Expo and also for long-term domestic and international tourism traffic into the Eastern Highlands,” said Dr Muswere.
The development came ahead of the 2025 edition of the premier tourism showcase, Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, which will be hosted for the first time in Manicaland Province.
The expo kicks off today under the theme ‘Devolving Sustainable Tourism Development—Our Future’
This historic shift aligns with the Second Republic’s devolution agenda.
“In keeping with the national devolution agenda, the 2025 edition will be the first in the Expo’s 18-year history to be hosted in Manicaland Province and the venue will be the recently renovated Mutare Sports Club,” said Dr Muswere.
“The decision decentralises tourism benefits and strengthens the visibility and inclusivity of provincial tourism benefits.”
In tandem with the airport refurbishment, other key transport infrastructure projects are enhancing Mutare’s accessibility.
The National Railways of Zimbabwe, under the Mutapa Investment Fund, has completed rehabilitation works on the Harare-Mutare rail line, while road networks have also seen improvements through the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development.
These interventions are expected to catalyse both business and leisure travel into the Eastern Highlands, setting the stage for a revitalised regional economy and expanded tourism footprint.
