adminGeorge Maponga
Masvingo Bureau
Traders at the Shona Village are experiencing significant financial gains due to an influx of local and international visitors during the festive season.
The village, located at the Great Zimbabwe Monument and world heritage site in Masvingo, was revitalised with funding from UNESCO after suffering damage from a fire a few years ago.
Traders from surrounding areas, including Nemanwa, Chiefs Mugabe, and Murinye, offer a variety of handicraft, carvings, and handicraft items that celebrate the culture of the indigenous Shona people, who used to live at Great Zimbabwe.
The village features grass-thatched rondavels, decorated in traditional styles to honour the ancient Shona culture.
The reconstruction of the Shona Village has attracted a growing number of tourists, enhancing its status as a prominent tourist destination. The ongoing refurbishment project is nearing completion and has already yielded positive results.
Mbuya Memory Mugabe from Haruzivishe Village stated: “We have been experiencing a huge change in our fortunes in this festive period because the number of visitors, both local and international, has markedly increased.”
She noted that many domestic tourists were particularly captivated by the cultural artifacts.
Mrs Mavis Chaenda from Nemazuwa expressed her gratitude for the village’s refurbishment, saying, “I can safely say that my life has changed for the better now because at least I can raise enough money from selling my wares here that I can send my children to school and look after myself.”
According to traditional dancer Mr Charles Guyo from Barahanga, traders are averaging US$30 daily in sales, with some making up to US$50 due to the increased visitor numbers.
“Traders are smiling during this festive period because on average a person is taking home a minimum of US$30 daily here.”
Mr Guyo also acknowledged the role of the upgrade in expanding the variety of available artefacts, thanking UNESCO and the Government for their support.
Masvingo Rural District Council chief executive, Mr Martin Mubviro, highlighted the positive socio-economic impact of the revamped Shona Village.
“We want to thank UNESCO and the Government for the rebuilding work at the Shona Village, which has brought immense benefits to the traders who are residents in surrounding communities,” he said.
The refurbishment aligned with Vision 2030, promoting economic growth in the region.
The rehabilitation of the Shona Village was part of the Great Zimbabwe preservation project, which aims to manage invasive species like lantana camara and implement modern monitoring equipment for the heritage site.
The Great Zimbabwe was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1986, underscoring its cultural and historical importance.
The revitalisation of the Shona Village not only boosts local traders but also enriches the cultural landscape of Masvingo, affirming the significance of preserving and promoting indigenous heritage.
Online Reporter