OVER 400 exhibitors from eight countries have registered for the 17th edition of the Sanganai Hlanganani World Tourism Expo set for September 12 to 14, in Bulawayo.
This year’s expo aims to foster sustainable tourism initiatives and gastronomy tourism.
It promises to be a significant platform for promoting the tourism industry and highlighting the diverse offerings of Zimbabwe and its regional partners.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi said the tourism expo aims to solidify its status as Africa’s key tourism exhibition, inviting regional countries to pitch investment opportunities and tourism product portfolios.
“We look forward to an inspiring and engaging event that will foster connections and drive growth in the tourism sector,” she said. This year’s expo aims to foster sustainable tourism initiatives and gastronomy tourism.
“We are excited to create a space that not only showcases our tourism potential but also supports small operators who often lack the resources to attend international travel shows.
“Bringing buyers to their doorstep is crucial for their growth.”
For the first time, the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education will feature Tourism Innovation Hubs, aimed at empowering youth in academia.
“One of our key projects is the production of fresh organic juices from indigenous fruits.
“This initiative will expose these innovative ideas to a global audience,” she said. The expo will also introduce a MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Masterclass, where experts from across Africa will discuss the development of MICE tourism.
“We believe this will be an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders to share insights and strategies for growth,” she added.
As of now, 410 exhibitors have registered for the event, including participants from eight countries: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Malawi, Tanzania, Angola, Nigeria, and the Embassy of Iran.
Notably, South Africa and Botswana plan to bring ten operators each, while Namibia will contribute six. However, Rwanda and Mozambique will not be exhibiting this year due to financial constraints.
In total there are 34 buyers from Africa as South Africa will be bringing 16, Botswana 12, Zambia 3, Kenya 1 and Namibia 2.
The expo will feature a series of conferences, including a MICE Masterclass and a Tourism Scholastic Conference, aimed at fostering discussions among industry leaders.
“These forums promise to inspire and inform attendees about the latest trends and innovations in the tourism sector.
“We are committed to raising the profile of the expo and showcasing the richness of Zimbabwe’s tourism offerings,” Rwodzi stated.
The expo will also host a Buyers and Media Cocktail on September 12, providing an exclusive networking opportunity for industry professionals.
The event will culminate with an Official Opening and Awards Ceremony on September 13, recognizing outstanding contributions in various tourism categories.
As excitement builds for this pivotal event, stakeholders are encouraged to register early to secure their participation and make the most of the networking opportunities available. — HMetro
