Online Reporter
Emmanuel Kafe-Herald Reporter
THE Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo has been hailed as a game-changer for Manicaland after it attracted 84 companies and 450 exhibitors from 23 countries, leaving behind a string of lasting infrastructure developments that are set to boost the province’s tourism and economic prospects.
The annual international tourism showcase, hosted for the first time in Mutare, drew buyers and exhibitors from across the globe, giving Manicaland an opportunity to market its diverse tourism offerings on the world stage.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbra Rwodzi described the event as a milestone not only for the province, but also for Zimbabwe’s tourism sector at large.
“This province is our little Switzerland. From the rolling Vumba mountains to Nyanga’s majestic peaks and Chimanimani’s natural wonders, Manicaland is a jewel in our tourism crown,” Minister Rwodzi said.
“Now that we have modern transport links and improved facilities, the world has no excuse not to come and see it.”
In preparation for the expo, Government undertook major upgrades to transport and event facilities in Mutare.
The Grand Reef Aerodrome underwent a major facelift, with its runway refurbished, passenger terminal modernised and navigational systems improved to allow for the safe return of scheduled flights. Roads leading to the aerodrome were also rehabilitated.
In addition, the once-dormant Harare-Mutare passenger train was resuscitated, while a new 30-minute domestic flight between the two cities was introduced, offering visitors multiple, convenient travel options.
“These developments enhance connectivity, create lasting tourism infrastructure and provide a strong foundation for sustained economic growth in the province,” she added.
The Mutare Sports Club, which hosted the expo, received a major facelift ahead of the event.
The venue’s pavilions, exhibition areas, landscaping and access roads were upgraded to meet international standards, transforming the facility into an international exhibition centre.
Minister Rwodzi noted that this investment would serve the city well beyond the expo.
“These facilities will continue to attract business meetings, conferences and leisure events long after the expo,” she said.
The minister credited the successful execution of the infrastructural projects to collaboration across Government.
She singled out Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona for working closely with her ministry on the aerodrome upgrades and road rehabilitation.
“I want to thank Honourable Felix Mhona and his ministry for working hand-in-hand with my ministry to make the resuscitation of the Grand Reef Aerodrome and the rehabilitation of roads possible.
“This is how we are building our country, brick by brick, stone upon stone, and leaving no one and no place behind.”
With the successful hosting of Sanganai/Hlanganani in Mutare, authorities and tourism players are confident that Manicaland is now firmly positioned as one of Zimbabwe’s premier destinations.
The expo’s success, coupled with improved transport links and modernised facilities, has set Mutare and Manicaland on a new trajectory, cementing their place on both the domestic and international tourism map.
