Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
HOT Springs in Chimanimani are set for a major facelift ahead of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanai World Tourism Expo with the commercialisation of the place opening up avenues to attract new investments.
The decision by the government for Manicaland provinnce to host the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanani World Tourism Expo for the first time in 18 years is expected to promote the growth of the tourism industry within the province.
Bridal Veil Private Limited company, which was formed by Chimanimani Rural District Council to revamp and run the operations of Hot Springs resort spoke on the progress being recorded in upgrading infrastructure at the resort.
“We have repainted the area and re-thatched the conference room and four other chalets and the works are continuing. We are targeting to upgrade this place ahead of Sanganai. This is an international resort so we need it to retain its world-class resort status. We are also looking for partnerships to recapitalise,” the company’s board chairperson, Mr Charles Mazhomwe said.
Chimanimani Rural District Council CEO, Mr Nehemiah Deure is happy with the transformation taking place.
“Hot Springs is a potential revenue-generating institution for the council. The RDC Act restricts councils from conducting commercial activities directly, so we established Bridal Investments to take on this role. Some infrastructure projects are already underway, and we are close to finalising a partnership with a state-owned enterprise to further fund developments. We aim to bring this resort up to international standards and attract tourists from around the globe.”
Among developments expected to take place at Hot Springs is the construction of a state-of-the-art hotel among other investments.
The Hot Springs are located 80km south of Mutare and the hot water from the springs is believed to have medicinal and healing properties.
Meanwhile, other places that are expected to attract many tourists in Manicaland include Chiringa Forest in Chipinge, Chimanimani Mountains and Bridal Veil Falls in Chimanimani, Vumba Mountains in Mutare and Mutarazi Falls in Mutasa.
Nyangani Mountain, Nyangombe Falls, World’s View and Nyanga National Park; all in Nyanga are among other key tourism destinations within the province.
