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Mashudu Netsianda
ZIMBABWE is undeniably endowed with many natural and man-made resources that continue to attract hordes of tourists from all over the world. Tourist attractions that quickly come to mind are the Mighty Victoria Falls, Matopo Hills, Khami Ruins and Great Zimbabwe among others.
There are however, two little-known yet magnificent attractions tucked away in the largely rural province of Matabeleland South at Garanyemba area of Gwanda.
A Gwanda-based indigenous entrepreneur and farmer, Mr Raymond Mauba, has somehow discovered the potential that lies in the scenic Nsimbi Caves and Libalaudo balancing rocks, a Sotho name that literally means “the place of the mysterious baboon.”
Driven by the passion to transform his area into an ideal community-based tourism destination, Mr Mauba through his company, Neha ya Babirwa Tourism Ventures, has decided to develop the two sites into commercial tourism zones targeting largely cultural tourists and fun-seeking holiday makers.
He said: “Matabeleland South has a lot to offer in terms of tourism. The province is naturally adorned and it has a lot to offer but sadly some of the products lack marketing. As Neha ya Babirwa Tourism Ventures we have identified Nsimbi Caves and Libalaudo balancing rocks around Garanyemba area and we intend to transform the two sites into commercial tourism zones. We want to develop the entire area into an economic tourism zone that would benefit the surrounding communities,” he said.
Mr Mauba is now seeking partners to develop the two areas into community-based tourism sites.
“There are a lot of tourism opportunities that need to be explored and exploited in this area.
“Libalaudo balancing rocks on Garanyemba Hills are not only spectacular, but they also have rich history. In fact, legend has it that several decades ago, a baboon once climbed up the mountain and perched itself on the cliff.
“It then failed to climb down resulting in it starving to death and that is how the rocks came to be known as Libalaudo. What remains mysterious is how that baboon found itself up there,” he said.
Mr Mauba owns a lodge in Gwanda Town and a farm along the Beitbridge-Gwanda road where he has plans to construct a state-of-the-art leisure centre.
“I am looking for partners to develop the Nsimbi Caves and Libalaudo balancing rocks into ideal cultural tourism sites.
“Neha ya Babirwa Tourism Ventures aptly captures the dominant Sotho culture in Gwanda District stretching to the southern border areas with South Africa’s Limpopo and North West provinces as well as Botswana in the south west thus making it easy to market the area both regionally and internationally.
“I have a lodge on my farm and I want to further develop it so that it can accommodate tourists visiting the area,” said Mr Mauba.
The Nsimbi Caves where the San used to live are approximately 200 metres long and 50 metres deep. They are perched on a spectacular edge of Garanyemba Hills overlooking a picturesque valley. There are also rock paintings depicting the way the San people lived during their era.
At the site there is also a small dam on the end of the hill, an area that used to be a racing field for motor cycle riders during the colonial era.
“We propose to build a cultural village where artifacts would be sold to tourists and cultural enthusiasts.
“We also want to create a special entry into the caves and we are consulting local traditional leaders since they are the custodians of the place. A local chief is helping us identify a small group of villagers with knowledge on the local culture so that they narrate stories to visitors,” said Mr Mauba.
Visitors will also be treated to spectacular scenery as the sun is enveloped by two adjoined mountains steadily as it recedes to the horizon, creating a golden glow.
The area is also strategically located close to Matopo Hills as one drives down along the Gwanda-Guyu Road. The site is also situated near Selonga Dam, a fisherman’s paradise.
The other sites with a potential to generate tourists interests located within the geographical confines of the proposed catchment area include Lumene Falls near Mtshabezi Dam. The dam has a potential for water sporting activities.
“I believe that a combination of these varied cultural and tourist facilities create a highly attractive offering for different tastes among tourists if the necessary infrastructure is put in place,” said Mr Mauba.
He said if the proposed project comes to fruition, it will create employment for the local communities as well as boost revenue for the Gwanda Municipality.
“The successful implementation of the proposed project will have a positive impact on the image of Gwanda as a tourist gateway into southern Zimbabwe.
“The whole idea is to market Zimbabwe as a tourist destination of choice,” said Mauba.
If his dream turns into reality, visitors to Nsimbi Caves and Libalaudo balancing rocks are undoubtedly assured of a memorable holiday experience.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter