Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Mutare
Preparations for the 2025 Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo are at an advanced stage, with key infrastructure swiftly taking shape ahead of the prestigious event set for September 10–12.
Organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), the expo returns with renewed vigour, reaffirming its status as Zimbabwe’s premier tourism trade showcase.
Thousands of local and international exhibitors, buyers, investors and media players are expected in Mutare, the new host city, in what promises to be a milestone for the country’s tourism sector.
When a Zimpapers Business Hub news crew visited the venue on Saturday afternoon, workers and organisers were busy putting final touches to the exhibition space, reflecting the high-level coordination underway to deliver a seamless experience for delegates.
Running under the theme “Devolving Sustainable Tourism Development — Our Future,” this year’s edition underscores Government’s commitment to inclusive growth by decentralising major economic events and unlocking tourism potential across all provinces.
Stakeholders say Mutare’s hosting of the expo will boost domestic tourism and inject new energy into the Eastern Highlands’ economy, advancing the Second Republic’s development agenda under Vision 2030.
Sanganai/Hlanganani remains a beacon of Zimbabwean hospitality, and all eyes will be on Mutare as it takes centre stage in showcasing the best the nation has to offer.
Government and private partners have pulled out all the stops to ensure the province shines. Major upgrades include the expansion of Grand Reef Aerodrome to handle larger aircraft, rehabilitation of the Mutare Flyover and key feeder roads, and refurbishment of Mutare Sports Club. The Hot Springs Resort is also being revitalised to reclaim its place as a leading cultural and wellness destination.
Air Zimbabwe has added a tactical boost with daily return flights between Harare and Mutare from September 8 to 14, anchoring both the expo and its broader turnaround plan. On Saturday, Flight UM145 landed at Grand Reef Airport to a traditional water cannon salute.
The 48-seater ATR42-500 carried senior Government officials, including Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi and Deputy Minister Tongai Mnangagwa.
With a refurbished annual passenger capacity of 400,000, Grand Reef Airport now boasts a 1.2km runway capable of accommodating Code B aircraft.
In addition, the National Railways of Zimbabwe has availed a special passenger train with a capacity of 243 to ease travel.
