Online Reporter
George Maponga
Masvingo Bureau
THE 2026 Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbahwe Sports Tourism Carnival has opened in Masvingo, with the ancient city hosting various sporting activities, where 15 local tertiary institutions are participating.
Deputy Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Tongai Mnangagwa today launched the 2026 Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbahwe Sports Tourism Carnival at Mucheke Stadium amid pomp and fanfare.
The Sports Tourism Carnival is a precursor to this year’s edition of Sanganai/Hlanganani World Travel Expo that will be held at Gymkhana grounds in Masvingo City.
The expo will run from 9 to 12 September and will see hundreds of local and international buyers flocking to Masvingo City.
Deputy Minister Mnangagwa hailed the sports tourism carnival for its overall role in stimulating the development of tourism in the country.
He said sports have been identified as a key pillar for tourism development in Zimbabwe in line with Vision 2030.
According to the deputy minister, sports fuelled the growth of tourism as it involved the movement of many people as competitors and spectators.
Speaking at the launch, Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Ezra Chadzamira also lauded the role of sports in driving socio-economic growth.
Minister Chadzamira said sports were no longer simply recreational but could also stimulate growth of the tourism sector.
He challenged players in the tourism sector in Masvingo City to exploit opportunities created by this year’s Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbahwe Sports Tourism Carnival.
Teams from 15 local colleges, polytechnics and universities are taking part in the carnival in activities such as soccer, basketball, cricket, tennis and other disciplines at various venues across the ancient city.
