Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
THE US$1.4 million multipurpose pavilion at Hwange National Park is almost complete and set to be opened to the public by the end of this month.
A joint initiative between the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), the state-of-the-art facility is set to significantly enhance services for tourists visiting Zimbabwe’s largest national park.
The development comprises a modern entrance facility, staff housing, and various amenities, and will play a key role in monitoring activities within the park through the deployment of cutting-edge technology.
Zimparks Director General, Dr Edson Gandiwa, confirmed progress on the project.
“We are only waiting to complete a few civil works, and by the end of July, we will be ready to open the pavilion. This development is the result of vital partnerships that the government has actively pursued. It is a testimony to the success of Zimbabwe’s engagement and re-engagement efforts.”
Government authorities have hailed the project as aligned with national aspirations, reflecting Zimbabwe’s commitment to working closely with development partners to promote tourism.
“We the biggest national park in Zimbabwe. This development marks a significant transformation from what was once a rudimentary entrance to a world-class facility. As Matabeleland North, we continue to witness major development thanks to the Second Republic and the visionary leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa,” Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Richard Moyo, said.
“The Hwange One Stop Pavilion is a game-changer, offering visitors a seamless and informative entry point into the park. The facility will boost tourist arrivals by improving first impressions and accessibility. It will enhance the visitor experience through world-class amenities and promote eco-tourism and conservation education as central pillars of our tourism brand. As we market Zimbabwe as a premier safari destination, developments like this pavilion elevate our competitiveness on the global stage,” Special Adviser to the President on Monitoring of Government Programmes and Projects, Dr Joram Gumbo, added.
The pavilion project represents a major step in the government’s drive to promote tourism and position Destination Zimbabwe as a top safari and eco-tourism destination.
