Online Reporter
Online Reporter
Sports Tourism in Zimbabwe is set for a major boost this month when the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) from England, returns after more than 60 years, marking a milestone that unites Cricket and Tourism.
MCC’s arrival at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport this Thursday was marked by a warm welcome from the Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Hospitality Industry Dr Takaruza Munyanyiwa, underscoring the importance of Sports Tourism in promoting Zimbabwe as a world-class destination.
During their stay, MCC will play cricket in Kwekwe and Harare as well as immersing themselves in Zimbabwe’s rich tourism offerings, including Antelope Park in Gweru, Wild Is Life and the opportunity to experience authentic Zimbabwean cuisine. The MCC’s visit is more than a sporting tour; it is a celebration of cultural ties, soft diplomacy and the growing role of Sports Tourism in positioning Zimbabwe on the global stage.
The Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospital Industry, Hon Tongai Mnangagwa welcomed the tour saying it underscored efforts by the central Government through his Ministry and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) to promote the country as a viable sports tourism destination.
“As Government through the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority to promote Zimbabwe as a sports tourism destination. We are committed to continuing these efforts which are aimed at tourism in general being a top earner for the country,” said Hon Mnangagwa in an interview in the sidelines of the Tourism Expo currently underway at Bulawayo Polytechnic College.
“The ZTA’s partnership with Zimbabwe Cricket has enabled us to reach sports tourism markets and we will continue to work to bring more of such tours and events to Zimbabwe. As is we just hosted the International Cricket Council Cricket Mem’s T20 World Cup qualifiers which is a sure sign that we are able and ready for global events,” added Hon Mnangagwa.
The Deputy Minister also took time to applaud Zimbabwe for qualifying for the ICC Men’s T20 2026 World Cup after beating Kenya by 7 wickets in the semi-finals at Harare Sports Club this Thursday.
“We are going to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup! I want to congratulate the Chevrons for making the country proud,” said Hon Mnangagwa who is an avid sports fan.
Hon Mnangagwa was in the United Kingdom to witness Zimbawe’s first tour of that country in over two decades and has consistently backed incoming and outgoing tours of the Chevrons over the years.
