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status as a leading tourism hub in the region.
He was speaking at the official launch of the Zambezi Explorer, the largest luxury boat on the Zambezi River, which was built at a cost of US$1,5 million.
He said a lot has been done in respect of Zimbabwe’s preparations for the 20th United Nations World Tourism Organisation General Assembly in Victoria Falls and that the country is now ready.
Speaking at the same occasion, Zambezi Explorer chairman Mr Paphael Kruger said as players in the tourism industry in Victoria Falls they were looking at the long-term benefits of the country’s hosting of the UNWTO event.
“We have a vision of a proud Victoria Falls that lives up to its potential and uniqueness. In the next two months it will be the host of the tourism world with the opening of the UNWTO General Assembly and this is an unbelievable opportunity for Victoria Falls to market itself and showcase its potential.
“Honestly, I have no doubt that these six days will be successful. However, everyone in the industry needs to ensure that we maintain the high standards even after the event,” he said.
Mr Kaseke said the Tourism and Hospitality Industry Ministry has already booked the Zambezi Explorer for the UNWTO ministerial luncheon and for a sunset cruise that the ministers would have together with their spouses.
“This investment has been well received judging from the interest at the recent Durban Tourism Indaba especially from travel organisers, conference organisers and top-notch tour operators,” he said.
The Zambezi Explorer has a capacity of 160 people comprised of 140 passengers and a crew of 20 people.
Its lower deck houses 60 passengers, the middle deck 50 passengers while the top deck accommodates 30 passengers.
It is 27 metres long, 7,2 metres wide and 8,1 metres high.
It is made of steel and weighs about 20 tonnes and is powered by hydraulics unlike most boats that are mechanically powered.
It has 195 solar panels mounted on top while its batteries weigh about 3 tonnes and it also has a 5KvA inverter.
Online Reporter