Chronicle Editor
Leonard Ncube, [email protected]
THE Prime Minister of Sao Tome and Principe, Trovoada, who leads the Central African island nation, arrived in Zimbabwe’s prime tourism destination on Friday and was received by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi and other ministry officials.
Victoria Falls, which is a Unesco World Heritage Site, has been a magnet for global personalities, including heads of state, celebrities and tourists, who have come to witness its majestic beauty and enjoy its diverse attractions.
Minister Rwodzi delivered a message of goodwill from President Mnangagwa to Trovoada, who expressed his admiration for Zimbabwe and its tourism sector. He also pledged to become an ambassador for the country, which has been gaining international recognition through President Mnangagwa’s policy of engagement and re-engagement.
In an interview with the media, Trovoada said he was captivated by the World Heritage Site after sampling a few activities and having lunch at the Lookout Cafe, one of the upmarket restaurants in Victoria Falls.
“I came here on a visit and I have seen the Victoria Falls. It is a natural asset to the world. From here I am going to be Ambassador of Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe and I will definitely be back here. Yes, we are spending two days here with family,” he said.
He thanked both Zambia and Zimbabwean authorities for facilitating his stay and activities.
“I would like to thank the authorities of both Zambia and Zimbabwe for providing assistance for us to enjoy this wonderful gift from Mother Nature. So we would like to emphasise the fact that we appreciate very much the collaboration between Zambia and Zimbabwe who facilitated access. I am confident that this will continue to be one of the assets for not only Zimbabwe but also for the entire African continent,” he said, adding that there is need to protect Victoria Falls as a natural wonder.
After exploring some of the attractions in Victoria Falls, Trovoada and his family left for Namibia as part of his tour of several destinations.
“I am taking the last impression of Victoria Falls before going to Namibia and I am sure when I go back to my country I will be an ambassador for Zimbabwe,” he said.
Minister Rwodzi said she was delighted that Zimbabwe continues to receive high-profile visitors.
“We are so happy to have hosted the Sao Tome and Principe Prime Minister. It affirms how important Zimbabwe is to the world and that our tourism is world class as we strive to become a world class destination. They have promised to be our ambassadors and come back again to visit, which is a positive development for us,” she said.
The visit also coincided with the annual Mapopoma Festival, which started today and will run until Sunday featuring local and international artists and DJs.
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