By Tadiwa Shunje
Preparations for the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, set to be hosted in Masvingo in September 2026, are gathering momentum following an all-stakeholders meeting held on February 13 to map out strategies, partnerships and logistical arrangements for the prestigious event.
Masvingo Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa, said the province recorded more than 50,000 visitors in 2025, with authorities expecting the upcoming expo to significantly boost tourist arrivals while positioning Masvingo as a leading tourism and business destination.
“Masvingo is committed to hosting a successful and well-organised event, the expo will place the province in both national and international spotlight,” said Dr Pazvakavambwa.
Masvingo has expressed readiness to host the international showcase, with over 900 rooms currently available across the city and surrounding areas. Stakeholders are also planning to expand accommodation capacity to meet anticipated demand.
“We currently have over 900 rooms available, and efforts are underway to increase that number. Preparations are being undertaken with a focus on inclusive participation so local communities and businesses benefit from the expo,” said Dr Pazvakavambwa.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi said communities play a crucial role in attracting visitors by embracing and promoting their culture while warmly welcoming guests.
“We are the ones who attract visitors when we proudly showcase our culture. Tourists return home with a positive image of who we are,” said Rwodzi.
The event will be held at Masvingo Gymkhana Grounds from September 9 to 12, 2026. Conference sessions are scheduled for September 9–10, followed by business-to-business engagements from September 10–11, while a public day is expected to draw hundreds of local visitors.
The Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo is Zimbabwe’s premier tourism showcase, attracting local and international exhibitors, investors and buyers.
Hosting the 2026 edition is expected to boost Masvingo’s tourism profile, stimulate infrastructure development, and create investment and employment opportunities within the province.
The expo was first held in Bulawayo in 2008 and has since grown into a major national and international tourism and investment platform. The 2025 edition was hosted in Mutare, while the 2026 event will mark the first time Masvingo hosts the expo.
Masvingo is home to some of Zimbabwe’s most significant cultural, historical and natural attractions. Key sites earmarked for promotion during the expo include Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site, Gonarezhou National Park, Lake Mutirikwi and Tugwi-Mukosi Dam, offering visitors a diverse mix of heritage, wildlife, leisure and adventure tourism.
