Chronicle Editor
Leonard Ncube – [email protected]
AS Zimbabwe prepares to host the first United Nations Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Forum for Africa later this month, the country’s leading mobile network operator, NetOne has pledged to partner with the organisers by providing seamless connectivity for the event.
The event will be held from 26 to 28 July in Victoria Falls.
Championed by the First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, it aims to celebrate Zimbabwean gastronomy and promote the country’s traditional culinary heritage and culture.
UN Tourism recently dispatched a technical delegation to inspect conference and accommodation facilities in Victoria Falls as well as assess the resort city’s readiness to host the event.
The UN Tourism technical co-ordinator for tourism market intelligence and competitiveness, Ms Maria Soledad Gaido and Regional Department for Africa programme officer Ms Zineb Remmal inspected the facilities in May.
Formerly the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), the UN Tourism is the world body’s agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universal access to tourism as a driver of economic growth.
Zimbabwe was selected to host the inaugural forum from July 26 to 28 in Victoria Falls, making the destination a leader in gastronomy.
This is in recognition of the work being done by the First Lady who has been promoting the concept of gastronomy tourism from the grassroots.
The First Lady has been instrumental in advocating for gastronomy tourism through her humanitarian work by the Angel of Hope Foundation locally and abroad. She has also pushed the gastronomy tourism agenda thereby helping market the country’s traditional cuisines.
The Government is pursuing a new agenda of introducing new tourism activities and packages with sports, gastronomy, religious and cultural tourism being top on the agenda.
Zimbabwe was chosen to host the forum in the wake of an exceptional exhibition of the country’s culture and cuisine by a Zimbabwean delegation at a similar forum held in Spain in October 2023.
Zimbabwe also received 100 scholarships from UN Tourism during the Forum in Spain, targeting Zimbabwean beneficiaries.
The scholarships have all been taken up by students in culinary departments and schools across Zimbabwe. A tourism academy will also be established in Victoria Falls.
In a statement and support of the cause, NetOne management announced its enthusiastic support for the inaugural event.
“As a leading digital solutions provider, NetOne is proud to contribute to this significant event by ensuring seamless connectivity for all attendees.
The company reiterated the company’s commitment to raising both its flag and Zimbabwean flag high during this event, highlighting the importance of showcasing Zimbabwe’s rich culinary heritage and its associated health and socio-economic benefits.
“NetOne Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Learnmore Musunda, assured delegates that NetOne will deliver the necessary digital infrastructure to ensure a smooth and convenient experience for all participants.
“With our reliable network and innovative solutions, we are dedicated to supporting the success of this event and promoting Zimbabwean gastronomy to the world,” he said.
Acting head of marketing, Ms Tatenda Makumborenga emphasised the company’s commitment to treating this event with utmost importance.
He said as part of the SADC main event preparations, NetOne is prepared to provide innovative and impactful support.
“NetOne Pvt Ltd is thrilled to support the first UN Tourism on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa and is committed to playing a pivotal role in this important event. Our dedication to making a significant contribution to the success of the UN Tourism on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa underscores our commitment to showcasing the best of Zimbabwean cuisine to the international community.
“We are excited to showcase Zimbabwe’s rich culinary heritage and provide seamless connectivity for all participants. With our innovative digital solutions, we are ready to raise both the NetOne and Zimbabwean flags high and help make this event a resounding success,” said Ms Makumborenga.
— @ncubeleo
Online Reporter