Online Reporter
The successful hosting of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo in Mutare has left a lasting infrastructural footprint, with the authorities and tourism players confident that the new investments will transform Manicaland province into one of the leading tourism destinations in the country. All in all, the expo attracted 84 companies and 450 exhibitors, including buyers from 23 countries. Our Reporter TENDAI GUKUTIKWA spoke with Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister BARBRA RWODZI on a range of issues, including Sanganai, the resuscitation of the Harare-Mutare passenger train, introduction of a 30-minute flight linking Harare and Mutare and the refurbishment of the Mutare Sports Club, all of which have left the province better equipped to host tourists and international events.
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Q: Thank you for taking time off your hectic schedule to talk to us. Minister, can you tell us some of the infrastructural developments brought by the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Tourism Expo?
A: Ahead of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Tourism Expo, we undertook a series of strategic infrastructural upgrades to ensure that Manicaland province is ready to host both local and international visitors. At the Grand Reef Aerodrome, we refurbished the runway, upgraded the passenger terminal and improved navigational systems to safely accommodate the return of regular flights from Harare. Roads leading to the aerodrome were also rehabilitated to facilitate smooth access.
The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) also resuscitated the Harare-Mutare passenger train that had long since been halted. We put in a leisure train, and these upgrades are part of a broader plan to strengthen transport and tourism infrastructure across the province.
The new 30-minute flight from Harare to Mutare, alongside the revival of the Harare-Mutare passenger train, ensures visitors have multiple, convenient travel options.
Together, these developments enhance connectivity, create lasting tourism infrastructure and provide a strong foundation for sustained economic growth in the province.
Q: In your assessment, how do you see these improvements changing the future of tourism in the province?
A: The infrastructural upgrades are a game-changer for the province’s tourism growth. With the introduction of the 30-minute flight from Harare to Mutare, local and international visitors can now access and experience the Eastern Highlands with ease.
The flight also connects Mutare with Victoria Falls, making it easier for our tourists to connect to and from here. At the same time, the revival of the passenger train along the Harare-Mutare route ensures that tourists and locals alike have more travel options.
Air Zimbabwe and NRZ are currently providing reliable transport for anyone wishing to travel to Manicaland. These developments are a great addition to our tourism economy.
Q: What role has the Whole-of-Government, private sector and regional collaboration played in driving these infrastructural projects?
A: I want to thank Honourable Felix Mhona, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development and his ministry, for working hand in hand with my ministry to make the resuscitation of the Grand Reef Aerodrome and the rehabilitation of roads possible.
I also thank various ministries for embracing the Whole-of-Government approach. This is how we are building our country, brick by brick, stone upon stone, and leaving no one and no place behind.
Q: What other infrastructural upgrades have been done in Mutare as a result of hosting the Sanganai World Tourism Expo?
A: The host venue, Mutare Sports Club, which belongs to the Mutare City Council, underwent significant refurbishment ahead of the expo, and such investment would remain as a legacy for the city.
The venue’s pavilions, exhibition areas, landscaping and access roads were upgraded to meet international standards.
The Mutare Sports Club is no longer just a local sporting venue; it has been transformed into an international exhibition centre capable of hosting large-scale events.
This is how tourism directly benefits local communities.
These facilities will continue to attract business meetings, conferences and leisure events long after the expo.
Q: What are some of the best tourist attraction centres in Manicaland and how do you intend to package them going forward?
A: This province is our little Switzerland. From the rolling Vumba mountains to Nyanga’s majestic peaks and Chimanimani’s natural wonders, Manicaland is a jewel in our tourism crown.
Now that we have modern transport links and improved facilities, the world has no excuse not to come and see it.
In line with the devolution and inclusivity strategy introduced with the inception of the Second Republic, my ministry took the expo to Manicaland.
We do not want to leave any place or anyone behind. This is the inaugural rotation approach, and we began in Manicaland because we believe it is a province endowed with diverse tourism attractions, second only to Victoria Falls.
