Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Masvingo
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa is expected to officially open the 19th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe World Tourism Expo in Masvingo next week as Government continues to use the tourism showcase to drive provincial development, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi has said.
The President is expected to officially open the expo on September 9 at the Gymkhana Grounds in Masvingo City.
Speaking at the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Gastronomy Carnival in Masvingo yesterday, Minister Rwodzi said the President’s participation underscored the importance Government attaches to tourism and the development of provinces.
“President Mnangagwa will join us on the 9th to officially open the 19th edition of Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo. We are grateful to have him,” she said.
The expo is expected to bring together international buyers, exhibitors, tourism operators and other industry stakeholders as Zimbabwe seeks to market its diverse tourism offerings and attract investment.
Minister Rwodzi said close to 140 international buyers had so far confirmed their participation, with many already in Masvingo for familiarisation visits.
“The bulk of the international buyers have arrived in Masvingo with the inaugural Air Zimbabwe flights, three flights in total and some have already gone to tourism sites.
“We really want them to enjoy the site visits,” she said.
The arrival of the international buyers coincided with the commencement of Air Zimbabwe’s daily direct flights between Harare and Masvingo, which are expected to improve tourism and business connectivity in the province.
A symbolic water-cannon salute welcomed the national flag carrier at Masvingo Airport on Saturday morning, marking the commencement of the service.
The aircraft touched down at 8:08 am carrying 39 international buyers.
Minister Rwodzi, Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Ezra Chadzamira, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority chief executive Dr George Manyaya and other tourism stakeholders were at the airport to welcome the inaugural flight.
The new air link is expected to provide a faster connection between Harare and Masvingo, complementing road transport and making it easier for tourists, business travellers and investors to access the province.
Minister Rwodzi said improved connectivity was critical to the growth of the tourism sector.
“In tourism, connectivity is very key and we are so happy to have witnessed the first group of international buyers.
“This is great growth of our Industry,” she said.
The hosting of the 19th edition of Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe in Masvingo is part of the Government’s broader thrust to promote balanced provincial development by leveraging tourism, investment and infrastructure.
The expo, which runs from September 9 to 12, is expected to showcase Masvingo’s tourism attractions while providing opportunities for local operators to connect with international markets.
The province is home to major attractions including the Great Zimbabwe National Monument, Kyle Recreational Park and Gonarezhou National Park.
The convergence of the tourism expo, international buyer familiarisation tours and improved air connectivity is expected to give fresh impetus to Masvingo’s tourism and investment prospects.
