Online Reporter
Lloyd Makonya
Correspondent
VUMBA will come alive tomorrow as the annual Vumba Fair returns to the iconic Tony’s Coffee Shop, promising a vibrant showcase of culture, creativity, community spirit and conservation.
Organised by the Friends of the Vumba (FOTV), the Fair has become one of the most anticipated events on the local tourism calendar, bringing together tourism players, corporates and communities in a celebration that blends lifestyle, environment and hospitality.
From handcrafted works of art and traditional wares to culinary delights and accommodation marketing, the Fair gives visitors a taste of the unique charm that makes Vumba one of Zimbabwe’s treasured destinations.
Tony’s world-famous coffee and cakes will once again be at the heart of the festivities, blending seamlessly with the crisp freshness of the Vumba highlands.
Chairperson of the Friends of the Vumba, Ms Sue Fenwick, said preparations had gone exceptionally well.
“The Fair is almost fully subscribed with exhibitors, and as always, there will be lots of fun, activities and entertainment.
‘‘It is a tradition that continues to grow each year,” she said.
Posting on their social media page, the organisers added: “Our annual fundraising Vumba Fair is approaching all too fast, make sure to be there! Lots of fun and entertainment planned, fabulous stalls as always with their variety of crafts, arts, homemade produce, fresh produce and of course a variety of food and drink options.
‘‘Catering to the whole family, young and old, from far and wide.”
While the Fair is a crowd-puller, it also plays a deeper role in sustaining conservation work in the Vumba.
The Friends of the Vumba Trust, a community-driven organisation, is dedicated to protecting the area’s biodiversity.
The Trust employs trained scouts who patrol against poaching, illegal logging and forest destruction, often working with the
Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority’s rangers.
They also spearhead environmental education, rabies awareness, clean-up campaigns and fire protection initiatives, all aimed at safeguarding the natural beauty that attracts visitors to the region.
Funds from the Vumba Fair and other community activities ensure that this vital work continues, creating a sustainable link between tourism and conservation. By preserving the Vumba’s flora and fauna, the Trust enhances the visitor’s experience, making the destination, not just a place of scenic wonder, but also one of responsible stewardship.
This year’s Fair comes at a particularly exciting moment, with Mutare preparing to host the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo in A fortnight.
The Fair therefore serves as a timely build-up, adding to the buzz and positioning Manicaland as a hub of tourism and hospitality.
As the Fair unfolds under the Vumba skies, it sets the perfect tone for the forthcoming global tourism showcase proof that Manicaland is ready to welcome the world with its blend of culture, conservation and community spirit.
