Zim tourism great but fix the roads
THIS week, we had the pleasure of participating in preSanganai/hlanganani World Tourism Expo familiarisation tour, designed for high-end buyers from the United Kingdom and France. The trip, organised by Rainbow Tourism Group in partnership with the government and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, demonstrated that Zimbabwe is a good treasure with stunning scenery, a vibrant cultural history, and first-rate hospitality that make a lasting impression on anybody.
We began with a visit to one of Seven Wonders of the World – an iconic location, the Victoria Falls. The buyers, some of whom were taking in the sight for the first time, were treated to a breath-taking display of the Zambezi River's majesty and grandeur.
Following the tour of the mighty falls, they had the opportunity to visit shops that offered a variety of traditional goods, including clothing from Africa.
During the game drive at Chamabondo National Park later that day, we observed a variety of wild animals, including zebras, elephants, kudus, and impalas.
Buyers experienced a “simunye” (we are one) show at the Victoria Falls Theatre on Sunday night.
On Monday morning, we went quad biking and then had a cultural experience in one of the rural villages in Victoria Falls. We also learned a great deal about the Ndebele way of life and marriage.
We had dinner at The Boma that evening and were treated to an amazing event. We were taken to Hwange National Park on Tuesday by Heritage Expeditions Africa, RTG'S tour operations arm, where we enjoyed sight-seeing some wild animals, including the kings of the jungle — lions. Buyers agreed that Zimbabwe was fantastic after the excursion. They complimented the cuisine, accommodation, incredible people, rich cultural history, and landscapes — the list is endless.
But to promote Victoria Falls as a premier tourist destination, the government should expedite the rehabilitation of the Bulawayo-victoria Falls Road. It needs urgent attention.
This route is a crucial component that drives arrivals because the Victoria Falls is located at the end of it.
We cannot discuss tourism without mentioning Victoria Falls. Hence, it is important to rehabilitate the road that leads to this treasure.
Responding to questions in the Senate on Thursday last week, Felix Mhona, Minister of Transport and infrastructure Development, said the government will address the road situation.
This is commendable because road infrastructure is important for the tourism sector.
Figures from the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency showed that 409 979 international visitors entered Zimbabwe in the quarter ending in March 2024, representing an 83,2% rise from the prior period.
A total of 270 776 visitors, up 66,9%, arrived by road, making up the bulk of visitors.
Good road infrastructure will facilitate smooth and convenient travel for tourists who want to see various destinations in Zimbabwe, including the magnificent Victoria Falls.