Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
THE National Railways of Zimbabwe’s (NRZ) 15-coach luxury train made a grand arrival at the Mutare station this evening, marking the revival of the Harare-Mutare passenger service route which had been suspended since the Covid-19 era.
The train, which arrived at 5pm, is specially dedicated to the Sanganai World Tourism Expo.
The arrival of the luxury train has added to the excitement in Mutare as the city positions itself as the heartbeat of this year’s Sanganai World Tourism Expo.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, represented by his deputy, Honourable Joshua Sacco, said the arrival of the train was a positive sign for Zimbabwe’s tourism and transport industries as buyers and exhibitors have begun trickling into Mutare.
“This moment shows how Zimbabwe is connecting tourism and transport to support economic growth. We are excited to welcome international buyers and local stakeholders who are already arriving, and this train will make their journey to Mutare more comfortable and memorable. This has only been made possible through the great leadership of our visionary leader, President Emmerson Mnangagwa,” said Minister Mhona.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbra Rwodzi echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the luxury train was not just a mode of travel but also a symbol of Zimbabwe’s readiness to host global visitors.
“As buyers and exhibitors converge here in Mutare, the arrival of this train reflects our commitment to making tourism experiences in Zimbabwe world-class.
“This expo is about promoting our destinations, attracting investment, and creating lasting partnerships,” she said.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, stressed how devolution was playing a role in hosting the expo in Manicaland.
“Decentralisation and devolution is the reason why the expo is being held here in Manicaland this year, and we are seeing all these investments and developments taking shape because of it,” he said.
NRZ Board Chairperson, Dr Misheck Sibanda, applauded the collaboration among stakeholders.
“The expo has brought together local and international tourists and businesses. Let us continue to work together and make sure that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 of an upper middle-income economy will be achieved,” he said.
The luxury service coach is equipped with Starlink WiFi, 13 sleeper coaches, dining cars, and a power coach.
