Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe,Zimpapers Business Hub
THE National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has stepped in to boost connectivity during the 18th Edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Tourism Expo by introducing a special Rail Leisure train service between Harare and Mutare.
The luxury train, with a carrying capacity of 243 passengers, is expected to offer exhibitors, buyers, media, and the travelling public an opportunity to experience premium rail travel during the country’s flagship tourism showcase.
The expo is set for 10-12 September at Mutare Sports Club.
In a statement, NRZ said: “The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) is excited to announce that it will be running a special Rail Leisure train service between Harare and Mutare during the 18th Edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Tourism Expo, running under the theme: DEVOLVING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT – OUR FUTURE, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry (MoTHI) and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA).
“The train has the capacity to ferry 243 passengers. The NRZ is currently finalising the refurbishment of coaches to be used for this purpose at its Bulawayo mechanical workshops. The entire stretch of the railway line between Harare and Mutare has since been fully rehabilitated to provide passengers smooth rides with breath-taking views of the natural beauty of Zimbabwe.”*
The inaugural luxury ride will depart Harare at 7AM on September 5, followed by trips on September 7 and 9. Return journeys from Mutare to Harare are scheduled for September 6 and 8, also departing at 0700hrs. An overnight service from Mutare to Harare will run on September 12, departing at 8PM.
“There will be no train runs on the 10th and 11th of September 2025, as these days are reserved for Mutare excursions. The NRZ will offer local, regional and international exhibitors, buyers, media and the people of Zimbabwe an opportunity to experience luxury rail travel, where entertainment will be provided and refreshments served,” the statement added.
The initiative adds momentum to measures aimed at making Mutare more accessible during the Expo, complementing other efforts by the tourism industry.
Just last week, Air Zimbabwe announced daily return flights between Harare and Mutare from September 8 to 14, a tactical boost designed to ease access to the Eastern Highlands while supporting its broader turnaround strategy.
The Expo, one of Africa’s premier tourism showcases, annually brings together a wide range of local and international exhibitors, industry professionals and visitors to explore Zimbabwe’s rich natural attractions and vast investment opportunities.
Bongani Ndlovu