Story by Yolanda Moyo
The tourism sector is set to take centre stage as the country prepares to host the Sanganai Hlanganani World Tourism Expo from the 12th to the 14th of September in Bulawayo.
The 17th edition of the premium world tourism expo which is expected to run from the 12th to the 14th of next month, will spotlight sustainable tourism initiatives and gastronomy, underscoring the industry’s commitment to responsible practices and culinary experiences.
In a media briefing in Bulawayo this Friday, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Tongai Mnangagwa said the expo has attracted 400 local and international exhibitors, marking an 8% increase from the previous year.
“Sanganai Hlanganani has become a pivotal platform for showcasing Zimbabwe’s diverse tourism offerings to the world. This year’s edition promises to be even more impactful as we welcome a larger number of exhibitors. We have been hosting this expo for the past 5 years in a bid to promote the tourism industry in Bulawayo especially, the small operators whom we know are incapacitated to attend internationaltravel shows, hence the initiative to bring buyers to their doorstep.
“As the host province, we look forward to seeing more players from the Metropolitan Province and elaborate displays from the City of Kings and Queens. We look forward to the province taking ownership and advantage of this mega event to profile its tourism products,” he said.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Dr Takaruza Tanyanyiwa highlighted the expo’s role in revitalising the tourism industry.
“Over the years, Sanganai/ Hlanganani has been instrumental in positioning Zimbabwe as a preferred tourist destination. Government has been working tirelessly to improve accessibility through infrastructure development in the aviation sector thereby attracting new airlines. This, coupled with the expo’s influence, will undoubtedly contribute to the growth of our tourism industry,” he said.
The Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, will for the first time feature Tourism Innovation Hubs at the expo.
The expo, a platform for networking and business deals, is expected to contribute significantly to the growth of the tourism industry, a key driver of the country’s economy.
