President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially opened the 18th Edition of Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo at Mutare Sports Club this, Wednesday.
Speaking during the event, President Mnangagwa highlighted that the Expo positions Zimbabwe as a premier tourism destination. He said, “The Tourism Expo is where culture meets commerce, nature meets innovation, and where Zimbabwe positions itself as a premier destination.
He added, “From the our iconic Victoria Falls to the rolling hills of Eastern Highlands, and from the rich wildlife reserves to cultural heritage sites, the event provides a platform to connect global, international and local tourism companies, local entrepreneurs and tour operators and investors. It is where new tourism products are showcased, strategic partnerships are forged, and innovative travel experiences are packaged for local, regional and international markets.”
President Mnangagwa averred that diversification of the country’s tourism sector is helping the industry to lure all types of tourists. He said, “By diversifying our tourism offerings, we are ensuring that Zimbabwe caters for all types of tourists, from leisure seekers to business delegates, to wellness tourists and adventure enthusiasts, among others.
The President also affirmed that hosting of the Tourism Expo in Manicaland Province is in line with the Second Republic’s Devolution policy.
In his welcome remarks, the Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Misheck Mugadza, reiterated that the hosting of the event in Manicaland province speaks volumes that no one and place is left behind.
Furthermore, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbra Rwodzi, informed that 84 countries, 450 exhibitors, and tourism buyers from over 20 countries came to experience what Zimbabwe holds in the tourism industry. She further applauded the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development for refurbishing the Mutare airport, citing that Air Zimbabwe is now landing in Mutare. She also revealed that the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanani had created employment for many locals.
