A major tourism development has been unveiled in Mutoko, with the official opening of the Chihera Leisure Centre, led by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry.
The launch represents a significant investment by Zimbabwean diaspora entrepreneur Choice Kanyongo, who is transforming her rural home area under Chief Charehwa into a modern leisure and hospitality destination.
The Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi, was represented at the event by the Ministry’s Chief Director, Tarirai Musonza.
In her remarks, Hon. Rwodzi praised the project as a model example of the Rural Tourism Cluster, a government-led initiative aimed at stimulating local economies while preserving cultural heritage.
She said developments such as Chihera Leisure Centre play a vital role in supporting national priorities under Vision 2030. “This project embodies the President’s mantra Nyika Inovakwa neVene Vayo, demonstrating how communities can drive development by investing in their own spaces,” she noted.
The Minister also highlighted the impact of Zimbabweans living abroad, describing diaspora-led investments as critical to strengthening the country’s rising global tourism profile.
Her comments come soon after Forbes Magazine named Zimbabwe the world’s number one destination for 2025, a recognition that the Ministry says reflects sustained efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure nationwide.
Hon. Rwodzi encouraged more Zimbabweans in the diaspora to reinvest back home through sustainable tourism ventures that create jobs, improve local services and broaden the country’s tourism offering.
She said projects like Chihera Leisure Centre show how rural destinations can become competitive tourism hubs, capable of attracting both domestic and international travellers.
Situated in the heart of Mutoko, Chihera Leisure Centre features a range of facilities including a bar, sunk braai area, swimming pool, conference space and a butchery. Plans are also underway to construct 20 guest rooms, positioning the centre as a fully-fledged hospitality establishment capable of hosting events, conferences and leisure visitors.
Local leaders say the development is expected to boost economic activity through employment creation and increased demand for local products and services. Tourism officials believe it will also help preserve cultural identity by attracting visitors interested in rural life, heritage, and community-based experiences.
As Zimbabwe continues pushing to modernise its tourism sector, Chihera Leisure Centre stands as a tangible example of how diaspora investment can reshape rural landscapes and elevate the country’s tourism competitiveness.
Understanding the Rural Tourism Cluster
The Rural Tourism Cluster is a key pillar of Zimbabwe’s Tourism Growth and Recovery Strategy, designed to unlock the economic potential of the country’s rural areas.
It focuses on developing tourism products that highlight local culture, natural landscapes, traditional lifestyles and community-led initiatives.
Under this strategy, rural districts are encouraged to leverage their unique strengths, from heritage sites and artisanal crafts to traditional cuisine and natural attractions, to create tourism experiences that benefit local communities.
The approach also aims to increase participation of rural populations in the national tourism economy by promoting small enterprises such as homestays, cultural centres, craft markets and nature-based activities.
The Rural Tourism Cluster aligns with national development frameworks such as Vision 2030, which prioritise inclusive growth and the modernisation of rural communities.
Government officials say the model not only helps preserve Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage but also diversifies the tourism offering beyond traditional destinations like Victoria Falls, Kariba and the Eastern Highlands.
Projects like Chihera Leisure Centre, built in remote areas yet offering modern amenities, demonstrate how rural tourism can attract visitors seeking authentic, community-rooted experiences.
Tourism experts add that such developments drive job creation, revive local economies and inspire pride among rural populations.