Moffat Mungazi
Lloyd Makonya
Correspondent
MUTARE is set to make history as it hosts the 18th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo in September, a move that promises to unlock vast opportunities for tourism stakeholders in Manicaland, while revitalising the local economy.
This announcement was made by Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr William Stima, in a letter addressed to Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe Chief Executive Officer, Mr Paul Matamisa. This will be the first time Zimbabwe’s premier tourism show will be held outside Harare or Bulawayo.
The highly anticipated expo will take place from September 10 to 12, 2025, at Mutare Sports Club, marking the first time the event will be hosted in Manicaland Province.
This decision reflects Government’s commitment to His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s devolution agenda, which emphasizes: “Leaving no one and no place behind.”
By rotating the expo, Government aims to ensure equitable distribution of tourism benefits across the nation while showcasing the unique attractions of Manicaland to a global audience.
Tourism remains a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s economy, contributing approximately 7, 2 percent to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
It is a vital source of foreign currency, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly for small to medium enterprises.
The recently adopted National Tourism Recovery and Growth Strategy underscores tourism’s role in driving sustainable development and enhancing Zimbabwe’s global profile.
Hosting the Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo in Mutare aligns with this strategy by emphasizing regional tourism hubs and fostering inclusive economic growth.
For Manicaland’s tourism sector, this development is transformative.
The expo will provide a platform for local tourism operators to engage with international buyers, investors, and stakeholders, paving the way for growth and collaboration that will ripple across the provincial economy.
“After hosting the expo in Bulawayo since 2015 and in Harare before that, it is time to rotate the fair to other regions. This decision fosters growth and development in the tourism industry across the country,” remarked Mr Stima.
Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe president, Mr Brian Nyakutombwa said: “The event’s economic impact extends beyond tourism. Mutare’s business community is poised to benefit from the influx of delegates, exhibitors and visitors. The surge in demand for hospitality, transportation, and retail services will undoubtedly boost local businesses, including hotels, lodges, restaurants, and informal traders.”
He went on to implore all stakeholders to put all their hands-on the deck, starting now so that the event will be a memorable success saying: “Through a consented and well-co-ordinated effort between Government and private players within the industry, we should be able to deliver a successful event and find solutions to some challenges like accommodation which are not insurmountable if we work together.
“We need to continue liaising with our parent ministry and the regulatory authority ZTA so that we are singing from the same hymn book.”
Mutare’s selection as the host city underscores Government’s dedication to devolution, empowering provinces to lead their own development.
By bringing the Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo to Mutare, Government will, not only promotes inclusive participation, but also shines a spotlight on the untapped potential of Manicaland’s tourism sector.
Stakeholders across the province have welcomed the move, viewing it as an opportunity to highlight Manicaland’s rich cultural heritage, breath-taking landscapes, and renowned hospitality.
The province is ready to impress, ensuring that all who attend the expo leave with unforgettable memories.
President of the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe, Mr Clive Chinwada,
commended the move, calling it unique and noble.
However, he emphasized the importance of strategic planning and branding to elevate the expo’s global competitiveness.
“Zimbabwe’s rotational hosting strategy is unique and noble. It should, however, incorporate robust branding efforts to compete with internationally acclaimed travel trade events like the World Tourism Market in London, ITB Berlin, and Indaba in Durban.
‘‘There is need for stakeholders to kick start preparations now and address potential challenges which may arise, such as room capacity,” Mr Chinwada advised.
Leading up to September 2025, collaboration among stakeholders in Mutare and the broader Manicaland region will be key to ensuring the successful hosting of this landmark event.
As preparations gain momentum, Mutare’s hosting of Zimbabwe’s premier tourism event reaffirms the nation’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. This event represents more than an opportunity to showcase the region’s tourism potential.
Online Reporter