Story by Tichaona Kurewa
ASTON Villa Captain John McGinn and other international sports stars have been left in awe of destination Zimbabwe after visiting the resort city of Victoria Falls.
McGinn is in the country with his wife, Sara Stokes and has been fascinated by the mighty Victoria Falls on his visit following an invite by Zimbabwean soccer star, Marvelous Nakamba.
“It is great to be here in Victoria Falls. It is very wet and it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world. I am very excited, I will tell my teammates about this place. I am very fortunate to be here, the people of Zimbabwe have welcomed us so well and I will tell everyone back home how we have been welcomed here and that they are big fans of the EPL,” he said.
The Netherlands cricket team which is also in Zimbabwe for the World Cup Qualifier took time to tour the majestic Falls.
For the Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe, the visit by sports stars is a boost for sports tourism.
“The visit by the Netherlands cricket team was equally good for sports tourism as it demonstrated the importance of having the natural wonder of the world which people want to enjoy,” said Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe Matabeleland North chairperson, Mr Chiku Mulinde.
The Second Republic is on a spirited drive to engage and re-engage the international community to normalise relations and tourism has emerged as a viable tool to market destination Zimbabwe as international celebrities and sports stars are visiting the country for a firsthand experience.
Zimbabwe is targeting a US$5 billion tourism industry by 2025 and experts believe high-profile visits of this nature will trigger the attainment of the set target.
