By Karen Sibanda
Government has underscored the urgent need for hospitality facilities in Masvingo to register and comply with national standards as the province prepares to host the Sanganai Hlanganani Expo in September at Gymkhana.
Speaking at the Sanganai Hlanganani All Stakeholders Meeting held recently at Flamboyant Hotel, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi, said compliance was not optional but mandatory ahead of the high-profile event.
“Registration of hospitality facilities is not optional but mandatory as we prepare for the Sanganai Hlanganani Expo. We must ensure that every restaurant, lodge and guest house operating in Masvingo is properly registered and compliant with national standards. We want visitors to experience the best services under regulated and certified establishments,” said Rwodzi.
She warned that unregistered operators risk tarnishing the province’s reputation, particularly during events that attract both local and international exhibitors and tourists. Proper registration, she noted, allows government to monitor health standards, enforce tourism regulations and provide structured support to businesses.
Rwodzi added that formalising operations enhances investor confidence and strengthens Masvingo’s position as a competitive tourism destination.
“When facilities are registered, it builds trust with visitors and partners. It also ensures fairness in the industry and accountability among operators,” she said.
The Sanganai Hlanganani Expo, scheduled for September at Gymkhana, is expected to attract stakeholders from across the country and beyond, placing preparedness and compliance within the hospitality sector high on the Government’s agenda.
The Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, was represented at the meeting by the Permanent Secretary for Masvingo Province and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa.
