The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
THE 15th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, which begins on Thursday, is expected to be bigger and better compared to previous years.
The physical event returns following a two-year Covid-19-induced break, which saw past editions being held virtually.
Delegates interviewed by The Sunday Mail Online said they are ready for the event.
“We have waited long for this return. This is a special event not only for local but global tourism,” said one of the exhibitors.
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) is equally excited at prospects of this year’s expo, which will be held at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair grounds in Bulawayo.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, ZTA chief executive officer Ms Winnie Muchanyuka said:
“We had set a target of 250 exhibitors, but we are happy to announce that we surpassed this target.
“As we speak, 270 exhibitors, including 30 foreign firms, are participating this year, which is more than we initially anticipated.
“We are excited that after two editions of being virtual, this year we have a physical exhibition.”
Six African countries – South Africa, Rwanda, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana and Malawi – are exhibiting at the expo.
South Africa has the largest number of exhibitors at 10, followed by Mozambique with seven.
“In addition, all 10 provinces in the country have confirmed that they will be participating at this year’s expo,” Ms Muchanyuka said.
About 100 registered buyers are already in the country and have been part of tours to key tourism destinations.
Some of the buyers are from Germany, the United Kingdom, United States of America, the Middle East, Australia and India.
Events lined for the expo include speed-networking sessions for buyers, a breakfast for all exhibitors and the media, the Meet in Zim Bidding launch, a sports tourism symposium and a tree planting ceremony at Insukamini Primary School and Hugh Beadle Primary School.
A Tourism Investment Forum, as well as a Ministerial roundtable and a Family Fun Musical festival featuring South African superstar Big Zulu and local acts Djembe Monks, Killer T, Sandra Ndebele, among other artists, is also on the cards.
