A total of 133 international buyers have confirmed participation at the 19th Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo, up from 89 last year, a 49.4% year-on-year increase, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi said.

Exhibitor participation has also risen, with 392 companies already registered, against 343 last year, representing a 14.3% increase and putting the expo at 98% of its target of 400 exhibitors.

Rwodzi attributed the growth to what she described as an aggressive marketing campaign for Brand Zimbabwe, led by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority.

The campaign includes social media, radio and television advertising, billboards, electronic billboards, webinars, in-store promotions at TM and Pick n Pay, as well as branded buses operating on major routes connecting Harare, Masvingo, Bulawayo and Mutare.

The minister said the increased participation reflected growing confidence in Zimbabwe as a tourism destination.

“The level of participation demonstrates the growing confidence in Destination Zimbabwe and reinforces Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe’s position as a strategic platform for connecting Zimbabwe’s tourism industry with global markets,” Rwodzi said.

Buyers attending the expo, scheduled for September 9-12 in Masvingo, include representatives from Japan, China, India, the United States, United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, South Africa and other African markets.

Nine countries will also exhibit, including South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Rwanda, Ghana and Indonesia.

The government expects the increased participation to generate business opportunities across the tourism value chain, including accommodation, transport, food and entertainment.

This year’s expo will also spotlight Masvingo’s heritage and tourism potential, including the Great Zimbabwe Monuments, while sports tourism has been incorporated into the broader tourism promotion strategy.

The ministry says familiarisation tours and international media coverage will be used to turn the expo’s increased visibility into sustained tourist arrivals, investment and revenue.

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For years, it has been anything but.

Winding through Matobo District and stretching toward key economic and border points, the Bulawayo–Kezi–Maphisa Road has long stood as a symbol of neglect. Its surface is scarred by deep potholes, crumbling edges and long, uneven stretches that force drivers into slow, cautious movement. In the dry season, dust clouds swallow vehicles whole. In the rainy season, parts of the road become nearly impassable.

But beyond the inconvenience, the poor state of the road has quietly shaped life in Maphisa in more dangerous ways , enabling crime, increasing accidents and cutting communities off from essential services.

For residents, the link between the broken road and rising criminal activity is painfully clear.

Maphisa sits close to Zimbabwe’s southern border, making it a strategic transit point. Over time, that advantage has been exploited by organised car smuggling syndicates moving vehicles from Botswana into the country. The poor road conditions, instead of acting as a deterrent, have worked in favour of criminals.

Law enforcement struggles to keep up.

Police vehicles cannot maintain speed over the damaged terrain. High-speed chases are almost impossible. Setting up effective roadblocks becomes a logistical challenge in areas where the road narrows, breaks or becomes unpredictable.

Criminals know this, and they plan accordingly.

“They use this road because they understand its weaknesses better than anyone,” says Nkosana Dube, a local taxi driver who has spent years navigating the route. “When they are being chased, they simply speed off into sections where the road is worse. Police cannot follow at that pace without risking accidents or damaging their vehicles.”

He pauses, reflecting on how routine such incidents have become.

“We hear stories almost every week. Stolen cars passing through at night. Sometimes even during the day. It has made people uneasy because you realise how exposed we are.”

That sense of vulnerability is deeply felt by residents like Thandeka Ncube, who lives just outside the Maphisa growth point.

Her home was targeted in a robbery that she believes was made easier by the area’s inaccessibility.

“They came late at night, driving a vehicle that must have come through that same road,” she recalls. “They knew it would take time for anyone to respond, even if we called for help.”

The attackers forced their way into her home, taking valuables and supplies before disappearing into the darkness.

“When we reported the case, the police told us they had challenges reaching us quickly because of the road,” she says. “It was painful to hear that something as basic as a road could determine whether you get help or not.”

For Mandla Sibanda, a small-scale farmer in the area, the dangers of the road extend beyond crime.

He points to a bend along the Gwanda–Maphisa stretch where accidents have become alarmingly common.

“This road has claimed lives,” he says. “Drivers try to avoid potholes and end up losing control. Others misjudge distances because of the dust. Sometimes vehicles overturn or collide because there is simply no proper surface to drive on.”

Sibanda recounts how his cousin was hijacked along the same route, in an incident that combined both the dangers of crime and the vulnerability created by poor infrastructure.

“They blocked his path using another vehicle. There was nowhere to escape because the road was too narrow and damaged. They took the car and disappeared. By the time help came, they were long gone.”

Such incidents have contributed to a growing perception of Maphisa as both unsafe and isolated.

Transport operators often avoid the route or charge higher fares to compensate for the risk and wear on their vehicles. Emergency services take longer to reach those in need. Farmers struggle to move produce to markets, while access to healthcare and education becomes a daily challenge for many families.

“It’s not just about crime or accidents in isolation,” Sibanda explains. “It’s about how the road affects everything, from safety to livelihoods.”

The Gwanda–Maphisa Road is, in reality, a critical artery. It connects several districts and key economic hubs, including the ARDA Antelope Estate and the Makwe Irrigation Scheme. It also links communities to two border posts and opens up access to the tourism-rich Matobo Hills.

Yet for years, its condition has undermined its importance.

Now, there are signs of change.

Under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme Phase 2 (ERRP2), the government has begun rehabilitating the Bulawayo–Kezi–Maphisa Road. Construction equipment has moved in, and sections of the road are being rebuilt, raising hopes among residents that long-standing challenges may finally be addressed.

For many, the potential impact goes far beyond improved travel times.

A rehabilitated road could transform security dynamics in the area. Police would be able to respond more quickly to incidents, pursue suspects effectively and establish functional roadblocks. Increased traffic flow and accessibility could also act as a deterrent to criminal activity, making it harder for smugglers to operate unnoticed.

“A proper road changes everything,” says Dube. “It means visibility. It means movement. Criminals prefer hidden, difficult places. Once the road is good, this will no longer be one of them.”

Ncube believes the improvements will restore a sense of dignity and safety to the community.

“We want to feel protected,” she says. “We want to know that if something happens, help can come quickly. A good road gives us that hope.”

Sibanda, meanwhile, is already looking ahead to broader opportunities.

“When the road is fixed, we can think about growing our businesses, transporting goods easily, even attracting visitors,” he says. “But first, it will give us something we have been missing for a long time, security.”

Once completed, the road is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Gwanda and surrounding districts, particularly Matobo District. It will also improve access to essential services while unlocking economic opportunities in mining, agriculture and tourism.

Speaking during a recent media briefing, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona said the rehabilitation works are part of a broader effort to improve the quality of life for Zimbabweans.

“We are witnessing the work ethic of the Second Republic, which is focused on delivering development for the betterment of our people,” he said.

Back in Maphisa, the transformation is still underway. The road is not yet complete. The dust still rises. The potholes have not entirely disappeared.

But for the first time in years, the journey ahead feels different.

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Thousands of children will now be travelling to and from school every day, and their safety, Mhona said, depends on the behaviour of drivers on the roads.

According to government figures, at least 100 people were killed and 471 others injured in road traffic accidents between December 15 and December 26, 2025. The minister said many of these deaths could have been avoided.

He blamed most crashes on speeding, poorly maintained vehicles, driver fatigue, drunk driving and risky actions such as attempting to cross flooded rivers.

Mhona called on motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, rest properly before long trips and strictly obey speed limits. He warned that speeding is not a sign of skill but a major cause of deadly accidents.

The minister also condemned vehicle overloading and driving under the influence of alcohol, saying such actions destroy families and will be met with law enforcement.

“Road safety is not just about obeying the law. It is a moral responsibility,” Mhona said, adding that every driver has a duty to make sure children reach school safely and families return home alive.

To support the safety campaign, authorities, including the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Vehicle Inspectorate Department and the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, will step up road checks and public awareness efforts.

Mhona said the measures are aimed at saving lives, not punishing drivers.

“Every safe journey is a victory for Zimbabwe,” he said. “Drivers must protect lives and safeguard the country’s future.”

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In a bold move to reshape the global perception of South African tourism, the country’s official tourism board has appointed internationally renowned content creator Marvellous Nyongoro, widely known as The African Finder, as its new Brand Ambassador.

Hailing from Nyanga, Zimbabwe, 28-year-old Marvellous Nyongoro is a digital storyteller, travel enthusiast, and self-proclaimed foodie. A proud alumnus of Marist Brothers Nyanga Boys High School, he likely began cultivating his deep love for storytelling and African culture during his formative years there.

As The African Finder, Nyongoro has garnered an impressive social media following—over 463,500 followers across platforms—spanning countries such as Zimbabwe, Kenya, Rwanda, Egypt, Mozambique, Ethiopia, as well as the USA and UK. His content celebrates Africa’s rich heritage, vibrant cultures, and untold stories.

Appointing The African Finder as a South African tourism ambassador is a strategic initiative aimed at boosting international and intra-African travel to the country. Nyongoro’s influence goes beyond creating viral content. Through immersive storytelling and visual content focused on South African food, music, history, and culture, he seeks to reshape the global narrative and encourage more people to visit South Africa.

The African Finder joins a growing list of African influencers who are redefining digital travel content. Notable creators such as Wodemaya (265K Instagram followers, 1.73M YouTube subscribers) and Tayo Aina (365K Instagram followers, 1.13M YouTube subscribers) have led the way in using content to showcase African excellence. Nyongoro cites them as key inspirations and hopes to collaborate in future projects to amplify Africa’s tourism narrative.

Tourism remains a key pillar of South Africa’s economy, contributing to job creation, cultural exchange, and foreign investment. By selecting an authentic African voice like The African Finder, South Africa aims to boost tourist numbers from within the continent and across the Americas and Europe.

As part of this expansive campaign, billboards featuring The African Finder and the message “Visit South Africa” have already been launched in high-traffic areas such as Bole International Airport in Ethiopia. More installations are planned across airports and key transport hubs, creating a visual and emotional connection with travellers.

Beyond marketing, the campaign seeks to inspire Africans to explore their own continent. Encouraging intra-African tourism not only strengthens economic ties but also fosters unity, cultural pride, and mutual appreciation among African nations.

With a passion for authentic storytelling and a commitment to redefining Africa’s image, The African Finder is poised to influence how the world views South Africa. His content invites travellers to experience the soul of South Africa—its people, its food, and its traditions—through the eyes of a fellow African explorer.

As the tourism campaign gains momentum, Marvellous Nyongoro’s mission is clear: to celebrate Africa, inspire travel, and put South Africa on the global map as a must-visit destination.

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Discovering Reading

Reading is a wonderful companion when traveling, opening up new worlds and ideas right from your seat. To make reading on-the-go a success, select an appropriate format. Electronic books are obviously much lighter than lugging loads of books around. There are various different options to choose from, so there’s always something that will fit in your budget. If you prefer the feel of a real book, maybe just select one or two to take with you that are lengthy, so they’ll last the whole visit.

Engage with Digital Entertainment

Digital entertainment has quickly become the ultimate travel companion, providing travelers with many ways to keep themselves occupied no matter where they may be. Services like Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney+ allow viewers to download movies or shows directly so that there’s always something exciting on screen. Also, mobile games and portable consoles like Nintendo Switch provide hours of amusement through the huge array of games available.

Podcasts and music streaming apps add another level of entertainment, offering everything from informative discussions to foot-tapping tunes right into your ears. Don’t forget about all of the educational and entertaining apps out there. From language learning tools to virtual museums, there’s sure to be something perfect to make sure even long journeys are entertaining. By taking advantage of the digital entertainment options available today, you can make even long journeys more pleasurable experiences.

One form of digital entertainment that is gaining popularity amongst travelers is online casino games. Casino gaming, slots, poker and blackjack all provide the ideal combination of excitement and relaxation while traveling. They are easily accessible on smartphones or laptops and provide hours of entertainment possibilities. Furthermore, certain countries’ local online casinos may provide even greater immersion. For instance, if traveling through Australia, you could seek out Aus online pokies to experience how their local culture approaches gambling.

Discover Creative Outlets

Engaging in creative activities during travels is both enriching and enjoyable, no matter the art form you explore or the goals of your adventure. Be it painting scenes from travel destinations you visited or keeping a sketchbook or journal to record your thoughts, ideas and observations, there are various outlets for creative expression during travel to help channel creativity into a lasting keepsake of your trip.

Connect and Maintain Social Connections

Maintaining social connections while traveling is vital to feeling grounded and supported, even when far from home. Technology makes staying in contact easier than ever. Social media, such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, allows users to post real-time experiences to keep everyone you know up to date with what you’re doing. Video calling applications like Zoom, FaceTime or Skype allow direct communications that may ease feelings of homesickness or loneliness.

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During an internal awards ceremony held at Ilala Lodge Hotel, several employees were commemorated for serving the group for 20, 25, 30, and even 35 years. Notable employees including Cephas Ndlovu, Thando Ncube, Patience Mpofu, Jane Masamba, Dumisani Lunga, Kanyeka Muleya, and Siyatimba Muleya have committed decades of service, progressing through various roles and departments within the group.

Of the organisations 325 headcount, a total of 16 employees have served for more than two decades, showcasing the group’s dedication to nurturing talent from within. The Palm Hospitality Group exemplifies the remarkable achievement of staff retention through comprehensive training, cross-skill development, and personalised growth opportunities.

“Our people are the heart and soul of our success,” said Heather Kay, Group Hospitality General Manager. “We take immense pride in providing an environment that empowers our team members to unlock their full potential through tailored development programs, training workshops, and cross-skill opportunities.”

Palm Hospitality Group’s comprehensive training initiatives cover technical skills, operational expertise, leadership development, personal growth and customer service excellence. The organisation actively promotes internal career progression, enabling

employees to explore diverse roles and responsibilities across its two luxury hospitality properties, fostering a culture of continuous learning and job satisfaction.

“The remarkable journeys of our long-serving staff are a testament to our commitment to investing in their growth and empowering them to reach new heights in their careers,” added Kay.

From humble beginnings as porters, cleaners, and laundry hands, many of Palm Hospitality Group’s valued team members have ascended to managerial positions, demonstrating the transformative impact of the organisation’s development initiatives.

As the Palm Hospitality Group continues to set new benchmarks in the industry, it remains dedicated to nurturing its talent pool, fostering an environment of excellence, and providing exceptional guest experiences driven by a passionate and skilled workforce.

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The students are members of Millennium Promise Japan (MPJ). This non-profit organization supports development projects in Sub-Saharan Africa and promotes awareness of the continent among the Japanese.

The tour was facilitated by the Zimbabwe Embassy in Tokyo, which invited MPJ to visit the country after a destination presentation in December 2023 at the Tokyo University of Foreign Languages.

The students have a packed itinerary that includes visits to Harare and its surroundings, Masvingo, Bulawayo, Hwange and Victoria Falls. They will also meet with the tourism minister and local communities to discuss their observations and suggestions.

The students are documenting their daily experiences on Instagram, the X and YouTube, where they have a large following. They hope to inspire more Japanese tourists to visit Zimbabwe and to foster a deeper understanding and friendship between the two nations.

Zimbabwe is a key tourism source market for Japan, and the youthful segment is one of the major targets with great potential to influence a larger proportion through the social media network.

The tour is part of Zimbabwe’s efforts to boost its tourism sector, which aims to achieve a 5 billion tourism economy and to align with Vision 2030, which seeks to transform the country into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.

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“First and foremost, I want to emphasize that tourism is a partnership. It’s a relationship between the government and the private sector, where each party brings its unique strengths to the table.

“The government provides the framework, infrastructure, and policies to support tourism, while the private sector brings innovation, investment, and operational expertise. Together, we can create a vibrant and sustainable tourism ecosystem,” she added.

“It is a sector that has the potential to shape our nation’s image and bring prosperity to our people,” she said.

By investing in training and development, businesses can enhance the skills of their employees, ultimately providing better service and elevating the country’s tourism offering.

Addressing the significance of the ongoing Sanganai Travel Expo, Rwodzi highlighted it as a platform embodying the essence of tourism—connecting people, cultures, and economies. The expo, she emphasized, demonstrates Zimbabwe’s commitment to promoting itself as a world-class tourism destination.

Rwodzi encouraged attendees to seize the opportunity provided by the Expo to market Zimbabwe effectively. She expressed confidence that such endeavours would lead to sustained growth in tourism arrivals and investment inflows, solidifying Zimbabwe’s position on the global tourism map.

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The event, which is scheduled to take place from 12-14 October in Bulawayo, is seen as a significant opportunity to showcase the resilience and vibrancy of the tourism sector in the country.

Vengai Nhau, President of the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming Expo in a recent statement.

He highlighted the industry’s readiness to participate in this momentous event, stating, “We are thrilled to announce the upcoming Sanganai Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, scheduled to take place from October 12th to 14th in the vibrant city of Bulawayo.”

Nhau emphasized the Expo’s importance as the first major event following the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions. He believes that this event will serve as a launching pad for the revival of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector, which has exhibited remarkable signs of recovery.

“We believe that this event will provide us with a platform to showcase the resilience and strength of our tourism industry, which is on a remarkable path to recovery,” Nhau expressed enthusiastically.

With great anticipation, Nhau shared the industry’s excitement for another exhilarating edition of the Sanganai Hlanganani World Tourism Expo. The event is highly anticipated by all stakeholders within the tourism sector, as it offers a valuable opportunity to connect, learn, and network.

Nhau remarked, “This event serves as an opportunity to connect with industry peers, stay informed about the latest trends, and establish partnerships that contribute to the growth and success of our industry.”

Nhau extended a warm welcome to buyers, exhibitors, and all participants, recognizing their pivotal role in uplifting the tourism industry. He encouraged exhibitors to be part of this remarkable event, underscoring their presence and collaboration as essential for the industry’s success and growth.

The Sanganai Hlanganani World Tourism Expo promises to be a remarkable occasion indeed, as industry players and operators eagerly prepare to showcase Zimbabwe’s rich tourist offerings.

As the country progresses in the recovery of its tourism sector, the focus remains on revitalizing domestic and regional tourism through collaboration, partnerships, and sustainable growth. The Expo provides an exceptional platform for stakeholders in the industry to come together and pave the way for a brighter future.

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The expo aims to promote Zimbabwe’s tourism excellence by highlighting its rich cultural heritage, exhilarating wildlife experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled hospitality. The event will feature exhibitors from various sectors, including tour operators, accommodation establishments, wildlife reserves, adventure sports providers, and cultural organizations.

The expo will also provide a platform for networking and collaboration among industry professionals, such as local and international exhibitors, travel agents, tour operators, journalists, and government officials. The event will facilitate fruitful partnerships and drive growth in the tourism industry, with the objective of generating revenue, creating sustainable employment opportunities, and propelling Zimbabwe’s tourism sector forward.

Godfrey Koti, the Head of Corporate Affairs at the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, said: “One of the core objectives of this expo is to foster collaboration and networking opportunities among industry professionals. By serving as a meeting point for local and international exhibitors, travel agents, tour operators, journalists, and government officials, the event facilitates fruitful partnerships and drives growth in the tourism industry. Together, stakeholders aim to generate revenue, create sustainable employment opportunities, and propel Zimbabwe’s tourism sector forward.”

He added: “This year’s edition of the Sanganai Hlanganani Expo is expected to attract visitors from around the globe, firmly establishing Zimbabwe on the international tourism map. By showcasing the country’s diverse attractions and investment opportunities, the expo provides a platform to attract international tourists and potential investors.”

The expo will also feature exchange programs, business match-ups, and B2B meetings to cultivate long-term partnerships in the tourism sector. Additionally, the expo will launch a comprehensive marketing campaign to raise awareness of Zimbabwe’s unique experiences and attractions. To ensure exceptional service delivery during the event, workshops, training programs, and quality assurance sessions are being organized to equip businesses with the necessary skills and knowledge.

The tourism industry is eagerly anticipating a successful and unforgettable event that will showcase Zimbabwe’s diverse tourism offerings, foster collaboration, and expand market reach. The expo stands as a catalyst for growth and development in the sector. The world awaits in eager anticipation to explore the wonders of Zimbabwe and discover the vast opportunities it offers to travellers and investors alike.

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