Sunday, September 15, 2024 In the realm of sustainable tourism, the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo recently highlighted the potential for tourism entrepreneurs to grow through collaborative engagement. This event demonstrated how tourism entrepreneurs can leverage direct connections with other stakeholders and customers to upscale their businesses. As noted by industry experts, sustainable tourism in Zimbabwe offers numerous opportunities, especially in rural, cultural, and township tourism.
The Expo stressed that entrepreneurship within the tourism sector extends beyond traditional bed-and-breakfast models to more innovative and sustainable avenues, such as adventure, health, and cultural tourism. With rich natural resources in rural areas, there is significant potential for investment in eco-friendly and cultural tourism experiences that appeal to global travelers. Experts like Dr.
Farai Chigora and Dr. Tabani Moyo, who have contributed extensively to research and business modeling in tourism, emphasize the need for rural and township entrepreneurs to explore new business models. By tapping into Zimbabwe’s rich cultural and natural heritage, entrepreneurs can create sustainable business ventures that benefit both current and future generations.
Opportunities in Rural Tourism Rural areas in Zimbabwe, often abundant in natural resources but affected by poverty, offer a unique opportunity for sustainable tourism development. By shifting focus from urban to rural investments, entrepreneurs can reverse the poverty cycle and tap into the growing demand for eco-tourism, cultural experiences, and health-conscious travel. Regions such as the Eastern Highlands, with their scenic landscapes and clean air, are ideal for these ventures.
The demand for cultural tourism is also on the rise, with global tourists increasingly seeking authentic experiences that align with sustainable development goals (SDGs). Zimbabwe’s rich traditions, from traditional dances to organic food production, offer a wealth of opportunities for tourism entrepreneurs to create niche experiences for international visitors. Sanganai/Hlanganani Tourism Expo: A Catalyst for Growth The Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo serves as a critical platform for showcasing Zimbabwe’s tourism potential.
It encourages dialogue between the government, businesses, arts, media, and international stakeholders, offering a strategic space for promoting Zimbabwe as a leading tourism destination. Through structured engagement and investment in the tourism sector, the Expo helps to build awareness and foster long-term sustainability in Zimbabwe’s tourism ecosystem..
