Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
A STRETCH of Save River, below the iconic Birchenough Bridge, in Buhera, has unexpectedly transformed into a picturesque beach, drawing tourists to revel on its sandy banks.
The sudden change in the river’s course has altered the perception of the mighty Save River and its historic steel bridge.
Save River, originating from Mashonaland East, and flowing into the Indian Ocean, is the country’s largest river.
Birchenough Bridge, a colonial-era landmark, is twinned with the Sydney Harbour Bridge of Australia.
The emergence of the beach has catapulted Save River onto the tourism scene, attracting visitors from far and wide.
The beach has been enthusiastically embraced and extensively marketed to local and international tourists as a must-visit destination.
Over the past two years, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), in partnership with the Office of the President and Cabinet, has hosted the Save Beach Party to promote Birchenough Bridge as a premier tourist resort.
The recent Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo, hosted by Manicaland, culminated in a closing party at Birchenough Bridge last Saturday. Thousands gathered to enjoy the beach, swim in Save River’s fresh waters, and celebrate the Expo’s success.
Attendees at the beach party were astonished to discover the unexplored gem, where one can unwind, enjoy, and cool off in the river.
Locals were equally mesmerised, realising that their familiar haunt could attract thousands of visitors.
With sustained marketing, Birchenough Bridge is poised for transformation, leveraging its potential for rural, entertainment, and gastronomic tourism.
The area’s culinary delights, including succulent goat meat, indigenous chicken, and sadza remhunga, are a major draw.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Honourable Barbara Rwodzi, described Birchenough Bridge as a “sleeping giant” whose time has come.
She emphasised the need for marketing, akin to other scenic spots in Manicaland, to attract regular local and international visitors.
Government is pushing forward with its rural tourism agenda, promoting marginalised areas to uplift community lives.
Minister Rwodzi urged the Buhera South community to enhance their homesteads, enabling them to host visitors seeking extended stays in the area.
“Of course, due to climate change, a beach was created here. But we asked ourselves — ‘What can we do to benefit from this and turn it into an economic opportunity?’ This area used to be a river, but now it is a beach. We have identified places like Birchenough Bridge that can be added to our basket of attractions in Manicaland. We aim to host this beach party annually to grow domestic and international tourism. Activities will be centered around the bridge, and entertainment will take place on the beach.
“Gastronomy tourism is also key, as you can see everyone enjoying local cuisine. We are promoting rural tourism to improve livelihoods in marginalised areas. By hosting this party annually, we encourage visitors to explore rural homesteads for accommodation, promoting economic growth. We envision locals converting their homesteads into tourist-friendly accommodations, improving their lives and contributing to an upper-middle-class society by 2030.
“Increased visits to Birchenough Bridge will lead to improved infrastructure, booming business activity at the growth point, and significant economic gains. With Mutare’s airport and train connections, visitors can easily attend the annual beach party.
“Sanganai/Hlanganai/Kumbanayi has done an excellent job showcasing what we can offer in domestic and international tourism. Many Zimbabweans are still discovering Manicaland’s hidden gems. We plan to host more events in the province, building on Sanganai’s momentum. The unofficial beach party brings joy and closure to our official events in Manicaland,” said Minister Rwodzi.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, outlined the province’s strategies to leverage the success of Sanganai/Hlanganai/Kumbanayi, attracting tourists to explore the province’s hidden gems.
“Birchenough Bridge is a unique treasure we are rediscovering. For years, we overlooked its potential, but now we have uncovered a stunning beach, possibly the largest in the country, situated directly opposite the bridge. This conjunction of bridge and beach is a significant feature for our tourism industry.
“The 329-meter-long and 10-meter-wide bridge, initially constructed for transportation, now offers a dual purpose – tourism, included. Visitors can marvel at spectacular views while relaxing on the beach, especially at night when illuminated by lights. We are also promoting sports tourism on the beach.
Birchenough Bridge’s proximity to Hot Springs and Chirinda Forest provides tourists with a plethora of options, making this area an attractive destination,” said Minister Mugadza.
Local businessman, Mr Peter Rwangu who is into retail, said the Save Beach Party event improved their business activities.
“Tourists used to flock this place, and have pictures taken while on the bridge, and return back to Mutare. We were left with no benefits at all. This strategy of bringing thousands of people for a whole day is the best idea as tourists will have time to explore and spend some money here.
“Government should continue maintaining the bridge especially painting it so that it remains aesthetic,” he said.
Mr Itai Mutendadzamera, another businessman, said the increased and sustained marketing of the bridge and beach presents new business opportunities, especially in accommodation and local cuisines.
“The more people flocking here, the more business opportunities created. Restaurants and accommodation facilities recorded brisk business. In terms of accommodation, the place was overwhelmed, and some had to sleep in their cars. This is an opportunity to open more lodges and hotels here,” he said.
