Nqobile Bhebhe, Rutendo Nyeve in Nyanga
Pictures by Eliah Saushoma
MANICALAND has rolled out the red carpet as it hosts the 18th edition of the Hlanganani/Sanganai/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo at Mutare Sports Club, a historic first for Zimbabwe’s premier travel showcase outside Harare or Bulawayo.

The move is a game-changer, positioning the province as a top-tier tourism hub with its breathtaking scenery and rich culture now under the global spotlight.

Running under the theme “Developing Sustainable Tourism Development – Our Future”, the Expo has attracted international buyers, investors and travel industry leaders from as far afield as the Netherlands, South Africa and China.

From the misty peaks of the Bvumba Mountains and the mystical Chimanimani ranges to the awe-inspiring Mtarazi Falls — the second highest in Africa — Manicaland’s raw natural beauty is stealing the show.

On Monday, visitors were seen exploring the province’s crown jewels ahead of the exhibition, sampling attractions and soaking up the sights.

Government and private partners have gone all out to ensure the province dazzles, pulling resources together to deliver a world-class event.

The Expo, formerly known as the Zimbabwe International Travel Expo, has been a key fixture for local and international tourism players. It was hosted in Harare before relocating to Bulawayo in 2015, boosting that city’s tourism profile.

This year’s event is extra special as it comes shortly after the launch of the National Tourism and Hospitality Policy (2025–2030), a bold roadmap placing tourism at the heart of Zimbabwe’s economic growth.

With its rugged mountains, majestic waterfalls and vibrant cultural heritage, Manicaland is ready to prove it’s more than just a destination — it’s an unforgettable experience.



