tawandamusarurwa
Online Reporter
Entrepreneurs have been urged to partner Government in tourism development, as part of efforts to boost domestic tourism.
In his remarks at a tourism seminar organised by the Rural Enterprise Development Trust (REDT) in conjunction with the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Authority (Zimparks) in Hwange recently, chairperson of the Trust, Mr Joseph Thompson, said locals should make the most out of resources in the rural areas to boost local tourism.
“As a Trust, we realised that most people see rural areas as retirement areas and there is great rural to urban migration in search of greener pastures. The country has also witnessed a lot of migration out of Zimbabwe whilst we have great opportunities in the rural areas.
“We have also seen many foreign nationals flocking into rural areas to venture into mining, tourism, agriculture and simple industries like brick-making. These foreigners are making millions in the same environment that locals see as unsuitable,” said Mr Thompson.
He urged entrepreneurs to support Government programmes that are aimed at building the country.
“Nations are built by entrepreneurs and not politicians and that is our mantra. We have realised that there are many programmes being put forward by the Government to develop rural areas but there is little uptake or no interest from the youth.
“Rural areas are considered backward and unappealing, but those are the areas that are still pristine, where there are still a lot of cheap resources, clean air and clean water,” he said.
Zimparks Business Enterprise manager for Matabeleland North Province, Mr Peter Nyadowa, said they were ready to partner with individuals to support the tourism sector.
“Our mantra is that Zimparks is open for business. There are many opportunities that are there in the tourism sector that one can invest in.
“For example, Zimparks can register you to build your own lodge within the national park on a lease of 25 years,” he said.
Online Reporter