Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Mutare
Buyers at this year’s Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo swapped boardrooms for the rails on Wednesday evening — and what a ride it was.
In a delightful break from the bustle of exhibition halls, guests boarded a charming vintage-style train at Mutare Train Station, embarking on an unforgettable 20-kilometre journey that blended scenic beauty, local flavour and effortless networking on the move.
Lovingly restored, the National Railways of Zimbabwe train echoed the elegance of a bygone era.
As it pulled away at exactly 6:41 pm, excitement stirred in the carriages.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting golden light over the rolling hill, with glasses in hand and smiles all around, the journey felt less like an event and more like a memory in the making.
By 7:28 pm, the train reached its turnaround point. After a short stop, it headed back towards Mutare — and by 8:20 pm, the real party began.
The pavilion at the train station came alive with music, laughter and the easy camaraderie that only a setting like this could inspire.
Far from stiff formalities, the ride offered international buyers, tourism stakeholders, and media a rare chance to connect on a personal level.
“Networking events are usually a bit formal, but this felt different — more human,” said Tafadzwa, a seasoned Zimbabwean tour operator who shuttles between Harare and Johannesburg.
This year marked his tenth time attending Sanganai/Hlanganani, but this ride, he said, was “something special.”
Onboard were key figures including Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi and Manicaland’s Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Mischek Mugadza, alongside tourism sector leaders.
Manicaland’s hospitality was on full display from traditional snacks to refreshing drinks, every detail added to a festive yet authentic vibe.
And then there was Rwodzi, ever-energetic in a bold national fabric dress, dancing her way through carriages, greeting the media by name, and embodying the very spirit of Zimbabwean warmth.
Rwodzi has carved out a niche not just as a government official, but as a cultural ambassador — one who connects with people through laughter, stories, and most famously – DANCE!
And dance she did.
As the train hummed along the tracks, a spontaneous celebration broke out group selfies, toasts to new partnerships and impromptu dance sessions in the lounge car.
The rhythmic clatter of the tracks became the evening’s unofficial soundtrack.
Advocate Mugadza, speaking briefly to journalists, couldn’t hide his pride.
“As Manicaland, we are on cloud nine. This event has taken the province to another level.
” The pressure now is to keep the momentum,” he said.
“Obviously, with the whole-of-government approach brought about by our able leader, President Mnangagwa, we know the facilities are going to improve and they need our support.
“My office will do whatever it takes to ensure such programmes continue. Everyone loves the train.”
The ride was more than just a journey — it was a statement but key highlight in the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority’s broader effort to showcase not only Zimbabwe’s destinations, but its unique, lived experiences.
As the train gently rolled back under a starlit sky, the mood was mellow, joyful, reflective.
And when the wheels stopped, the energy didn’t.
Back at the station, Rwodzi — still dancing — led a celebration that carried on late into the night.
Because when business meets beauty like this … magic happens.
What a smooth ride it was.
