Manicaland Shines as Host of Global Tourism Expo

Tourists in Nyanga (image source)

Manicaland Province has emerged as Zimbabwe’s newest tourism showcase after successfully hosting the 18th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo, breaking from tradition after years in Bulawayo. The event, held at Mutare Sports Club, attracted international buyers, local operators, and government officials, cementing the eastern province’s reputation as a world-class destination.

“We doubted the facilities in Manicaland, but we were very surprised and happy that the event was a resounding success,” said Paul Matamisa, CEO of the Zimbabwe Tourism Business Council.

To host the event, Manicaland underwent major infrastructure upgrades, including rehabilitation of the Grand Reef Aerodrome and improved railway links connecting Mutare to Harare. These improvements not only supported the expo but also created lasting benefits for the region’s tourism sector. Tourism Minister Barbra Rwodzi said the shift symbolised government’s strategy to decentralise tourism development. “We do not want to leave any place or person behind,” she said. “This year’s theme, Devolving Sustainable Tourism Development—Our Future, reflects our vision of shared growth.”

Delegates were treated to excursions across Manicaland’s famed natural wonders, from the misty Bvumba Mountains to the breathtaking Mtarazi Falls in Nyanga. For many international buyers, it was their first direct experience of the province’s potential as an adventure and eco-tourism hub.

“This event has put Manicaland on the global tourism map,” said hotelier Chipo Mutsvangwa. “We’ve seen bookings triple in just one week.”

According to provincial Minister of State Advocate Misheck Mugadza, the expo is expected to lift tourism’s contribution to Manicaland’s GDP from the current 7% to over 10% within two years.

The success has also encouraged government to rotate hosting duties annually, giving other provinces the chance to spotlight their unique offerings. Analysts say this model could help diversify Zimbabwe’s tourism economy while reducing overreliance on Victoria Falls and Bulawayo. With its stunning landscapes and strengthened infrastructure, Manicaland now stands poised for greater prominence in regional tourism. The expo’s success demonstrates the potential of devolved development strategies to spread economic opportunities beyond traditional urban centres.

For Zimbabwe, it signals a turning point—where every province could one day take its place on the global tourism map.