Moffat Mungazi
Liberty Dube
Tourism Correspondent
WITH just under three weeks to go before Manicaland hosts the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi
World Tourism Expo for the first time, significant progress has been made at the main venue, Mutare Sports Club.
Permanent Secretary for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Abiot Maronge said renovations at the facility are now over 80 percent complete.
Since the announcement that the club will host the prestigious event, the facility has undergone extensive transformation, with major sections either demolished or extensively rehabilitated.
Mr Maronge expressed satisfaction with the progress made, confirming that the venue is on track to be fully prepared for the Expo.
The Sanganai World Tourism Expo is scheduled to take place in Mutare from September 9 to 12, marking a significant milestone for the province’s tourism sector.
“We are happy, and we are on course. The refurbishments are progressing well, and we are confident that the targeted timelines will be met. The parking areas are being worked on, and we expect to be done by the end of next week. Changing rooms and canteens are also under construction. We can safely say that progress is more than 80 percent.
“By the end of next week, we will be talking about the completion of most sites. The speed is excellent, and the collaboration among various councils, ministries, departments and agencies, contractors, and other stakeholders is commendable. Everyone is working closely to ensure a quality job is done and we are excited,” he said.
The Manica Post, following a visit on Wednesday, can confirm that the tennis courts have been fully refurbished.
The access road to the club from Park Road has been tarred with the undercoat already in place, and final surfacing set to be completed soon.
It was a hive of activity, with contractors finishing a two-storey building near the cricket grounds. Parts of the main hall had been tiled, and the roof was neatly installed and decorated with reeds.
The canteen and ablution blocks were being plastered, with some sections already painted.
The parking area was being cleared and levelled, with more than 60 contractors on site working in unison to meet the deadline.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza recently confirmed that momentum is building as Manicaland is geared up and buoyant to host the prestigious expo.
“This global event offers us an incredible opportunity to showcase the beauty, potential, and hospitality of our province and we are rising to the occasion with purpose and pride,” posted Advocate Mugadza on his official social media platforms.
“I recently toured several key facilities that are being developed or upgraded to meet international standards and provide an exceptional experience for exhibitors and visitors alike. The Mutare Sports Club tennis courts have been fully refurbished — ready to welcome world-class networking and cultural exchange. A new, spacious parking area is nearing completion, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all attendees.”
Minister Mugadza also revealed that one of Nyanga’s most iconic tourism landmarks, the historic Rhodes Nyanga Hotel, is currently undergoing elegant renovations. The upgrades aim to offer comfort and charm for both local and international guests during the event.
He emphasised that the expo is a celebration of Zimbabwean excellence, resilience,
and readiness to engage with the global tourism market.
Online Reporter