Story by Tichaona Kurewa
TOURISM players in Binga, Matabeleland North Province, are optimistic that the Batonga Cultural Festival slated for next month will consolidate growth in the promising destination along the Zambezi River.
Zimbabwe’s promising tourism hub is expecting to record huge numbers in arrivals as the local board prepares to host the inaugural Batonga Cultural Festival (BCF) at Binga Centre.
The festivities are being organised by the Insiku YaBaTonga Association.
Among other activities, the three-day event will be marked by music, dance, and exhibitions, all showcasing the Batonga culture to the world.
“The cultural festival will bring more clients for us. We expect room occupancy to reach 100% because we are already getting reservations in advance. We also expect the people coming for the festivals to explore Binga and spend locally. We also expect brisk business for those who do activities such as boat cruising, tour guides, the retail sector, and others to record increased business,” said a tourism player.
Another added, “The festival will go a long way in marketing Binga to the world, as all the people who will be coming will be sharing their experience through social media platforms and by word of mouth upon return to respective places.”
The local board is hopeful the event will extensively market Binga.
“The festival will bring investments to Binga as the local board will also be showcasing investment opportunities in the town in terms of estates that include hotels, lodges and residential,” said Binga town board administrator, Never Mwinde.
Organisers of the event highlighted the objectives of the cultural festival set to be graced by other Batonga audiences and artists from Zambia.
“We want to educate the world that the Batonga people are incorporating Batonga beliefs, cultural dress and others,” said Insiku YaBaTonga Association vice chairperson, Terry Leach.
Festivals remain one of the major drawcards of tourists into any destination as has become the case with the Victoria Falls carnival.
