10/09/2026
PRESIDENT MNANGAGWA OPENS SANGANAI/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe, urges tourism growth
by Gideon Madzikatidze
MASVINGO - President Emmerson Mnangagwa this Wednesday officially opened the 19th Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe World Tourism Expo in Masvingo, calling for bold investment, innovation and provincial growth to position Zimbabwe as a premier global destination.
Addressing delegates at the epic citadel of the Great Zimbabwe Monuments, the President described the venue as more than just a backdrop.
“This 19th edition is particularly unique in that it is being held with the backdrop of the epic citadel of our country’s rich national heritage, the Great Zimbabwe Monuments. From here, our country derives its name, Zimbabwe," President Mnangagwa said.
The President said Zimbabwe’s tourism value proposition extends beyond its flagship attractions.
“The imposing Great Zimbabwe Monument is a reminder that Zimbabwe’s tourism products extend beyond the celebrated wildlife and majestic Victoria Falls, ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’,” he stated.
“Our nation’s competitive advantage equally rests on our rich history, culture, indigenous knowledge systems, music, cuisine, arts and heritage, as well as the warmth and hospitality of our people,” Mnangagwa said.
He urged buyers and exhibitors to experience the country first-hand.
“I, therefore, invite international buyers and exhibitors to discover the Zimbabwe that lies beyond the exhibition halls. Please feel free to experience our breath-taking destinations,” Mnangagwa added.
“Explore the cascading and mountainous landscapes, encounter the range of wildlife, enjoy our mouth-watering gastronomy and above all, share the warmth and friendliness of our people,” he added.
Linking tourism to national development, the President said the rotation of Sanganai among provinces gives practical effect to the devolution and decentralisation agenda.
“The rotation of the Sanganai/Hlanganani expo among our provinces... ensures that tourism opportunities spread throughout the country,” he said.
“Creating empowerment and employment opportunities, while also enhancing quality infrastructure, with regards to roads, accommodation and other social services,” Mnangagwa added.
The hosting in Masvingo has also transformed the Gymkhana Events and Conference Centre into a modern tourism, business, events and conferencing hub.
The President challenged Masvingo to leverage its assets.
“Masvingo province in particular, is challenged to strategically engage with a wide cross-section of stakeholders, to increase investments and develop new tourism products around the Great Zimbabwe Monuments, Lake Mutirikwi, Tugwi Mukosi, Manyuchi Dam, Gonarezhou and other attractions,” said Mnangagwa.
He also called for a tourism development corridor that connects these nodal sites, including liberation war sites such as Kamungoma as well as Conservancies along the Save Valley.
President Mnangagwa noted Zimbabwe’s rising profile, citing recent accolades including Forbes Magazine 2025 and Condé Nast Magazine 2026. Recently, the sector was conferred the Gold Award at the 2026 Chinese Tourist Welcome Awards, for excellence in destination marketing.
“Such recognition affirms the growing international appeal of Zimbabwe as a premier tourist destination,” he said.
“I urge tourism operators in our country, to seize this expo as a springboard for sustained growth, by developing innovative products and experiences” Mnangagwa added.
The Expo runs this week, bringing together buyers, operators and investors to seal deals that will shape Zimbabwe’s 2026 tourism season.
