Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Harare
THE Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo is more than a once-off showcase of Zimbabwe’s tourism potential, but a long-term catalyst for growth, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi has said.
This year’s 18th edition makes its historic debut in Manicaland from September 10 to 12 at Mutare Sports Club. Thousands of delegates, international buyers, investors and exhibitors are expected to converge in the eastern border city, transforming it into a hive of global tourism business.
Running under the theme “Devolving Sustainable Tourism Development — Our Future”, the Expo is organised by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) under the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry.
Over the years, it has grown into Africa’s premier tourism marketplace, spotlighting diverse travel products while creating a serious platform for business engagement
Updating the media, Minister Rwodzi stressed the event’s enduring impact.
“Sanganai/Hlanganani Kumbanayi is designed not just as a once-off tourism showcase, but as a catalyst for long-term growth. Beyond immediate publicity and business deals, the Expo builds lasting networks between local operators, international buyers, and investors,” she said.
Minister Rwodzi highlighted structured programmes such as the Tourism Investment Forum, academic and policy dialogues and destination familiarisation tours, all aimed at generating opportunities beyond the three-day showcase.
“By fostering enduring partnerships, stimulating new investments, and strengthening Zimbabwe’s global market presence, Sanganai/Hlanganani Kumbanayi ensures sustained growth in tourist arrivals and positions the country as a competitive and reliable destination for the foreseeable future,” she added.
With the countdown to Mutare’s grand hosting underway, Minister Rwodzi called for broad national support.
“This platform is not only a showcase of Zimbabwe’s tourism potential but also a celebration of our heritage, culture and the legendary warmth of our people. It is a rallying point for collaboration, innovation and forging strong partnerships that will place Zimbabwe firmly on the global tourism map,” she said.
Minister Rwodzi urged the media, business community and all Zimbabweans to amplify the expo’s story.
“Together, let us ensure that this expo reaffirms tourism as a leading sector driving our economy, creating jobs, empowering communities and showcasing Zimbabwe’s unique treasures to the world,” she said.
The expo is also expected to deliver strong economic benefits for Manicaland Province.
“We call upon you, the media fraternity, tourism stakeholders, the business community and all Zimbabweans to play their part in amplifying the story of our country, a story of resilience, opportunity and boundless natural beauty,” said Minister Rwodzi.
The influx of international buyers, exhibitors, and visitors boosts demand for accommodation, transport, food, retail and entertainment.
“As a result, local businesses from hotels to small restaurants, taxis, among others along the value chain, will experience high turnover,” said Minister Rwodzi.
By mid-last week, seven countries had confirmed participation. These are Ghana, Indonesia, Botswana, Namibia, Malawi, Tanzania and South Africa. Ghana has expressed interest in showcasing at the Gastronomy Hub, while South Africa’s Vhembe Municipality will bring 10 SMEs.
