Moffat Mungazi
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
TOURISM operators in the province have been urged to seize the opportunity presented by the upcoming Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanai Tourism Expo, scheduled to take place in Mutare in September this year.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting hosted by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) this morning, Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Minister Barbara Rwodzi called on tourism operators to take full advantage of the prestigious event to market their services and attract investment.
“The Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanai Tourism Expo is not just an event; it is a gateway to new opportunities for tourism operators. It provides a platform to showcase Zimbabwe’s diverse tourism offerings and attract global investors and visitors to our country,” she said.
Minister Rwodzi said the expo would be a crucial opportunity for businesses in the tourism sector to network with international buyers, investors, and key stakeholders.
“I urge all tourism operators to participate actively in this expo. This is your chance to establish strategic partnerships and position Manicaland as a must-visit destination,” she said.
Minister Rwodzi said the expo has economic benefits of the expo and far-reaching impact beyond the tourism industry – boosting local businesses, creating employment, and strengthening the provincial economy.
“The impact of this expo extends beyond tourism. Hotels, lodges, restaurants, and transport operators will all benefit from the influx of delegates and visitors. This is an opportunity to showcase Manicaland’s potential as a vibrant economic hub,” she said.
Minister Rwodzi also encouraged industry players to take advantage of the whole-of-Government approach, which seeks to ease processes and support stakeholders.
“We have a big gap between Government and operators, and we need to fill it. Make use of our officers, and know your tourism officers. Take advantage of decentralisation because that is the reason it is there,” said Minister Rwodzi, emphasising the importance of promoting tourism in every province and highlighting the success of previous event in Bulawayo.
The Sanganai/Hlanganani Tourism Expo, one of Africa’s premier tourism trade fairs, is expected to attract exhibitors, buyers, and tourism professionals from across the globe.
This marks the first time it will be hosted in Manicaland, a move that aligns with the Government’s vision of decentralising major economic and tourism activities across the country.
“In 2023, we agreed that every year, we must have a province that promotes and develops. In 2024, we were in Bulawayo, now we are in Manicaland. Grab this opportunity, especially the operators because delegates will be coming from across the country and this is a great opportunity for both you and the country’s Gross Domestic Produc (GDP),” she said.
Minister Rwodzi also explained the significant contribution of tourism to the economy, with the sector contributing 12 percent to the GDP in 2024.
“Tourism contributed 12 percent to the GDP, which was the highest contribution in 2024. We have an intention to stay at that level,” she said.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza said this year’s expo promises to be a significant platform for local operators to connect with international buyers and grow their businesses.
“Hosting the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanai Expo presents us with an opportunity to reposition the province as a key player in Zimbabwe’s tourism industry,” he said.
Minister Mugadza encouraged local businesses and community members to actively support the event to maximize its benefits.
“We must ensure that our province is well-prepared to accommodate and impress visitors. Our hospitality industry, transport sector, and local businesses should work together to provide top-quality service to our guests,” he said.
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