By Shadreck Gurenje
President Mnangagwa has said tourism in Zimbabwe under the Second Republic drives economic growth and fosters local enterprise.
Officially opening the Sanganai /Hlanganani/Kumbanayi world tourism expo in Mutare, President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa said Tourism is a global powerhouse for economic development.
The Head of State and Government also reiterated that the expo helps Zimbabwe to position itself as a premier tourism destination across the globe.
“This Tourism Expo is where culture meets commerce, nature meets innovation, and where Zimbabwe positions itself as a premier tourism destination. From our iconic Victoria Falls to the rolling hills of the Eastern Highlands and from rich wildlife reserves to cultural heritage sites, this event provides a platform to connect global, international and local tourism companies, local entrepreneurs, tour operators and investors.
“Tourism is a global powerhouse for economic development. According to the UN Tourism Barometer, international tourist arrival grew by 11%in 2024 compared to 2023, highlighting a sustained global demand for authentic travel experiences.
“Zimbabwe is riding this wave of growth by leveraging its unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, heritage and cultural richness. Tourism in Zimbabwe drives economic growth, fortress local enterprise development, empowers communities and promotes conservation efforts, "said President Mnangagwa.
President Mnangagwa also commended Sanganai /Hlanganani/Kumbanayi world tourism expo for becoming the cornerstone of the country’s tourism growth.
“It is, thus, commendable that the Sanganai /Hlanganani/Kumbanayi world tourism expo has become a cornerstone of our country’s MICE tourism growth.
It is now a world-renowned platform, which demonstrates our capability to host international events that meet the highest standards creativity and innovation displayed by participants, this year, signal Zimbabwe’s readiness to continue competing on the global tourism stage,” said President Mnangagwa.
The Sanganai /Hlanganani/Kumbanayi world tourism expo running under the theme “Devolving Sustainable Tourism Development –Our Future” runs well with the Second Republic's mantra of leaving no one and no place behind in a move to realize the national goal of being an upper middle-income society by 2030.