Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Nyanga
Journalists on a pre-Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo familiarisation tour have described Manicaland’s tourism offerings as “untapped natural sites” with immense potential to contribute significantly to Zimbabwe’s revenue streams.
The media practitioners, drawn from various local publications and broadcasters, are currently touring prime tourism locations in the province ahead of the prestigious annual expo, which will run from 10 to 12 September at Mutare Sports Club.
Among the scenic highlights visited were Mount Nyangani, Mutarazi Falls, Nyangombe Falls and several premium hospitality establishments nestled within the Eastern Highlands.
Speaking to Zimpapers Business Hub at the picturesque Nyangombe Falls, Sitheni Nleya said the exposure provided by the tour had been invaluable.
“This has been an amazing journey with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority and Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, and having to experience these places in Zimbabwe is amazing,” she said.
“We have learnt a lot in agro-tourism and the growth potential within the Eastern Highlands.”
Byron Adonis Mutingwende echoed similar sentiments, highlighting how the tour has broadened their editorial perspectives.
“The devolution (of Sanganai) to us has exposed the gem in the Eastern Highlands to the media and we have realised the natural endorsement in the province.
As the media we are going to explore deeper in terms of coverage,” he said.
Nyangombe Falls, a striking series of cascading waterfalls located on the western edge of Nyanga National Park, exemplifies the hidden treasures dotted across the province — many of which remain under-promoted despite their unique appeal.
The familiarisation tour not only offers the press first-hand experience of these destinations, but also provides insight into the latest developments to be showcased at this year’s edition of the tourism expo.
Journalists participating in the tour underscored the importance of on-the-ground exposure in enhancing the quality and depth of their coverage.
They noted that physically experiencing these sites enables them to craft compelling narratives and visuals that go beyond standard press releases — stories that inspire and ignite public interest in domestic tourism.
“Such tours are crucial,” one journalist noted.
“They equip us with deeper insights, nuanced perspectives, and vivid details that elevate our storytelling and allow for more authoritative reporting.”
The familiarisation initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), is part of broader efforts to decentralise and amplify the national tourism brand in line with Vision 2030.
