Tourism rebound for Mahenye community in Chipinge

Story by Tamuka Charakupa

DOMESTIC tourism is on a rebound in the Mahenye area of Chipinge after the rehabilitation of the devolution-funded Jamanda Bridge, which has improved access to tourism facilities in the area.

“We are very happy that access to this area has been restored. This area provides access to various species of wildlife given its location as it borders with the Gonarezhou National Park,” said one of the community members.

Another added, “We have come here as a family of four on holiday, and what we enjoy the most is the site view and the game. We are delighted to be accessing this place easily, having been facing access challenges since Jamwanda Bridge had been affected by the cyclone.”

“We enjoy coming to this place. Chipinge offers a relaxing atmosphere where we get to witness wonderful flora and fauna,” another noted.

Director of the facility, Mr Clive Stockhill is confident domestic tourism will unlock downstream benefits for the Mahenye community.

“Indeed, there is a lot more to come, it’s going to get a lot busier and get a lot more recognition with people traveling here, and this is a positive mark for the business as well. We are working hand in hand with the local community so that we protect stray wildlife which may bounce out of the Gonarezhou,” he said.

Chipinge Rural District Council’s Human Resources and Administration Officer, Mr Takesure Maduveko expressed gratitude to the government for availing devolution funds to propel development.

“As Chipinge RDC, we are grateful to the government for the continued support towards enhancing service delivery for our communities in the form of devolution funds. We have rehabilitated classroom blocks, clinics, deep tanks, roads, and bridges using these funds.

“Jamanda Bridge was also rehabilitated, thus facilitating tourism activities for the community, which boasts various species of wildlife,” he said.

The government introduced devolution funds to bridge the funding gaps faced by local authorities to improve service delivery and transform livelihoods.