Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Mutare
Zimbabwe’s status as a world-class tourism destination is no longer a secret — at least not to the growing number of international buyers who have descended on the country for the 18th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo.
Speaking to Zimpapers Business Hub in the scenic city of Mutare on Sunday, tourism buyers from Germany, Sweden and Slovenia described Zimbabwe as an “untapped” gem with immense potential to dominate the global travel industry.
“Zimbabwe is such a beautiful, untapped tourist destination in Africa and in the world,” said Ms Saskia Reinders, a leading tour operator from Germany.
“I am here for the Sanganai Expo and looking forward to the exhibition. I have already booked some clients to come to Zimbabwe in 2026,” she added.
Mr Lado Rot, a Slovenian tour operator with Lifetime Experience, echoed similar sentiments, lauding Zimbabwe’s breathtaking scenery and the warmth of its people.
“Zimbabwe has great potential. It has beautiful nature and the people are very friendly. I think it’s time the world starts to discover this beautiful country,” he said.
From the North of Europe, Mr Scott Monaco of Sweden also noted the country’s untapped potential.
“I think it’s a place that has not been fully discovered, and I hope more people will come here,” he said.
The 18th edition of the Expo, which has drawn widespread international attention, is being hosted in Manicaland Province for the first time — a historic development that dovetails with the Second Republic’s devolution agenda and its drive to unlock the economic potential of all provinces.
Organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), the annual tourism showcase has grown to become Africa’s premier tourism marketplace. It brings together local and international players to network, forge partnerships, and exhibit the best of what Zimbabwe and the continent has to offer.
Held under the theme “Devolving Sustainable Tourism Development – Our Future”, the Expo’s Manicaland debut is more than symbolic.
It is a bold affirmation of the province’s rich tourism offerings — from lush mountains and cascading waterfalls to cultural heritage and biodiversity.
With September globally recognised as Tourism Month, Zimbabwe’s hosting of this world-class event reinforces the Government’s commitment to positioning tourism as a cornerstone of economic growth and sustainable development.
As international buyers continue to express confidence and interest in Zimbabwe, it is increasingly clear: the country is poised for a tourism renaissance and the world is watching.
