Manicaland gears up to host Sanganai/Hlanganani Tourism Expo 2025
The eastern province of Manicaland is preparing to take centre stage as it readies to host the 2025 edition of the prestigious Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo, scheduled to run from 10 to 12 September at the Mutare Sports Club.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi, joined by Deputy Minister Tongai Mnangagwa and Manicaland Provincial Affairs Minister Advocate Misheck Mugadza, addressed stakeholders at Queen’s Hall in Mutare this week to build momentum ahead of the event.
The Minister urged local stakeholders to gear up for the influx of international buyers, exhibitors and tourism enthusiasts expected in the city.
“We want Manicaland to shine,” said Minister Rwodzi. “This Expo must be a showcase of excellence, not just in scenic beauty but also in service and hospitality.”
As part of preparations, the Ministry is spearheading the upgrade of critical infrastructure in Mutare.
These include the rehabilitation of roads, enhancement of public facilities, and upgrades to the Mutare Sports Club – the main venue – as well as improvements at the Grand Reef Aerodrome to boost accessibility.
She also encouraged local entrepreneurs to maintain high accommodation standards, even within private homes, and to embrace innovation in their tourism offerings.
Emphasis was placed on remitting the 2% tourism levy, which supports the sector’s long-term growth.
Sanganai/Hlanganani Tourism Expo 2025: Tourism Power Play
Organised annually by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), Sanganai/Hlanganani is Zimbabwe’s premier tourism trade fair and one of Africa’s most significant travel expos.
It brings together global tourism operators, travel writers, hoteliers, airlines and destination management companies, all under one roof.
This year, the Expo has adopted the theme “Kumbanayi” – a Shona word meaning “come together” – reflecting a drive toward inclusivity, collaboration and community engagement across the sector.
While previous editions have largely been held in Bulawayo, the decision to move the Expo to Mutare underscores the growing importance of Manicaland in Zimbabwe’s tourism landscape.
The province is home to some of the country’s most iconic natural attractions, including the Vumba Mountains, Nyanga National Park, Chimanimani Mountains, and the mighty Mutarazi Falls – one of Africa’s tallest waterfalls.
Economic and Community Impact
Hosting the Expo is expected to bring a significant economic boost to Manicaland.
Local hotels, lodges, restaurants and craft markets are anticipating a surge in business.
The Expo also offers a platform for rural tourism initiatives and cultural showcases, spotlighting community-led tourism ventures across the province.
“This is not just a tourism event; it’s an opportunity to rebrand Manicaland as a serious player on the international tourism map,” said Minister Mugadza.
Zimbabwe is currently intensifying efforts to diversify its tourism offerings beyond traditional hotspots like Victoria Falls.
Authorities believe positioning Manicaland as a sustainable, eco-conscious and adventure-driven destination is key to achieving this.
With the countdown now underway, all eyes will be on Mutare come September, as the city prepares to welcome the world and reaffirm Zimbabwe’s place in global tourism.