Online Reporter
Langton Nyakwenda
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE relationship between sport and tourism has often been underestimated, yet the combination can be key to unlocking the country’s business potential, a local tourism expert has said.
Speaking ahead of a four-day sports extravaganza set for Masvingo, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority chief executive George Manyaya emphasised the importance of sport in boosting the country’s tourism sector.
Masvingo will host the September Sports Tourism Carnival from September 1–4.
The carnival will feature football, rugby, netball, basketball, tennis, cricket, boxing, golf, pool and athletics, and will precede the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe World Tourism Expo, which runs in Masvingo from September 9–12.
“We want the benefits of tourism to move beyond one venue.
“When supporters travel between venues, they use transport, buy food, purchase crafts and interact with communities.
“That is how sport becomes tourism and tourism becomes a driver of local economic development,” noted Manyaya.
“When people travel to compete or to support someone they love, they become tourists,” added Manyaya.
Mucheke Stadium will host football, tennis, netball, basketball and boxing, while cricket will be played at Masvingo Sports Club and rugby at Masvingo Government Primary School and Kyle College.
Sun East will stage the pool competition, with golfers travelling to Triangle Golf Club, while a half-marathon will feature 21km, 10km and 5km races.
The carnival culminates on September 4, when Masvingo Select sides face national teams in rugby, football, netball and basketball, followed by a prize-giving ceremony to be attended by senior Government officials.
The carnival will provide a curtain-raiser to the tourism expo, which the Government has taken to different provinces under its devolution policy.
Mutare hosted the event in 2025.
“September is Masvingo’s moment,” Manyaya said, urging visitors to experience the province’s sport, culture, food and tourism attractions.
