Story by Tichaona Kurewa
THE Ninth Institute of Cultural Affairs (ICA) International Conference ended on a high note in Victoria Falls, with delegates describing the resort town as “the heart and jewel of Africa.”
Hosted on African soil for the first time, the global conference brought together more than 200 delegates from over 30 countries to deliberate on community resilience, sustainable development, and cultural transformation.
Participants were full of praise for Zimbabwe’s prime tourist destination, commending its natural splendour, rich biodiversity, and world-class hospitality.
“I know they put it in Forbes magazine, it is absolutely true. Zimbabwe is the best place to visit. It is, it is the heart and the jewel of Africa, and I encourage you, look at what Forbes has to say, but come here on your own and see it for yourself,” a delegate said.
“I think everybody who has been here has been just overwhelmed with the beauty of Victoria Falls. It was just amazing to have such animals who were so willing to interact with people. This is actually my third time. Victoria Falls is very beautiful,” a participant said.
“We saw hippos walking all around, elephants. The coexistence between people and animals is really inspiring. What we found here is truly beautiful,” a delegate said.
Delegates adopted a set of resolutions aimed at strengthening community resilience and sustainable development.
“The resolutions that have come out of this conference include climate change education, expanding community development projects like recycling and clean air initiatives, empowering youth against drug abuse, and building regional and international networks for exchange programmes,” Executive Director of the Institute of Cultural Affairs, Zimbabwe, Mr Gerald Gomani said.
The conference, which is held every four years, was attended by over 200 delegates from more than 30 countries across the globe.
