Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially opened the 19th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe World Tourism Expo, bringing together tourism operators, international buyers and exhibitors as the country seeks to expand its presence in global tourism markets.
The expo was held at the Gymkhana Events and Conference Centre in Masvingo, running from September 9 to 12. More than 140 international buyers attended, with participants drawn from markets including China, India, Japan, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany and the United Kingdom.
Tourism investment gathers momentum
The event comes as Zimbabwe’s tourism industry records strong growth. Tourism investment reached approximately US$132.3 million during the first half of 2026, up sharply from US$40.2 million during the same period in 2025.
Tourism receipts also rose to about US$537 million in the first six months of 2026, compared with US$508 million during the corresponding period last year, according to Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube.
The government is seeking to use tourism to support economic development, attract foreign investment and spread economic activity beyond Zimbabwe’s traditional tourism centres.
International market push
The expo provides a platform for Zimbabwean tourism businesses to connect directly with international buyers and promote destinations, accommodation, cultural experiences and other tourism products.
The hosting of the event in Masvingo also forms part of the government’s broader effort to promote provincial tourism and balanced regional development, while highlighting attractions beyond the country’s internationally recognised Victoria Falls destination.
Growing visitor numbers
Zimbabwe has reported increased tourism activity in 2026. President Mnangagwa said domestic tourism trips rose to 6.4 million in the first half of the year, compared with about 5 million during the same period in 2025.
The government hopes the continued growth in visitors, investment and tourism-related spending will strengthen the sector’s contribution to the wider economy.
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