By Caroline Washaya Moyo
MASVINGO – Masvingo Province is harnessing tourism, culture, gastronomy and the creative economy to drive socio-economic development, as the province hosts the 2026 Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira, said the hosting of the prestigious tourism event presents an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to come together, celebrate Zimbabwean identity and showcase the province’s rich cultural and tourism offerings.
Speaking at the official opening at Caravan Park in Masvingo, Hon. Chadzamira welcomed visitors, exhibitors, tourism operators, buyers, media representatives, creatives, performers, partners and guests to the province.
“We are doing something that we do not always give ourselves enough opportunity to do. We are coming together simply to have fun and celebrate one another, and we are doing it right here in the streets of Masvingo,” he said.
Hon. Chadzamira said this year’s event highlights the important role played by tourism, culture and local communities in promoting socio-economic development under the Government’s devolution agenda and the priorities of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
He said gastronomy tourism was becoming an important component of Zimbabwe’s tourism offering, as it provides an opportunity to celebrate the country’s history, indigenous knowledge systems and cultural identity.
“Gastronomy tourism is more than just food. It is a celebration of our history, our soil and our indigenous knowledge systems. Through our dishes, we share our identity with the world while promoting health and sustainable livelihoods,” said Hon. Chadzamira.
The Minister of State also highlighted the importance of music and the creative economy in empowering young people and strengthening cultural exchange.
“Music serves as a universal language that transcends borders. As regional and local artists take to the stage, we celebrate the creative economy as a powerful engine for youth empowerment and cultural exchange,” he said.
Hon. Chadzamira said the hosting of Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe 2026 in Masvingo demonstrates the impact of the devolution agenda championed by President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
He said devolution was unlocking the vast potential of provinces by promoting tourism, infrastructure development, agriculture, gastronomy and community-based cultural enterprises.
“Under the leadership of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, Masvingo Province continues to unlock its vast potential through devolution,” he said.
“Tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, gastronomy and community-based cultural enterprises are transforming our local economy and creating new opportunities for our people.”
Hon. Chadzamira said events of the magnitude of Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe reinforce Masvingo’s strategic position as one of Zimbabwe’s premier tourism destinations.
The province boasts a rich combination of cultural heritage and scenic natural attractions, including Lake Mutirikwi, Tokwe-Mukosi Dam and Gonarezhou National Park, among other tourism assets.
As Masvingo hosts visitors from Zimbabwe and beyond, Hon. Chadzamira expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa for advancing the devolution agenda, which seeks to ensure that no one and no place is left behind.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of Masvingo Province, we extend our deepest gratitude to His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, for his devolution agenda that has seen us here today, ensuring that no one and no place is left behind,” he said.
He urged international and regional visitors to feel at home and take time to experience the sights, sounds and flavours of Masvingo.
“Immerse yourselves in the sights, sounds and flavours of Masvingo. Sample our indigenous cuisine, dance to the rhythmic beats of our music and take time to explore our world-class heritage sites,” he said.
Hon. Chadzamira also paid tribute to organisers, performers, exhibitors and guests for contributing towards the success of the event.
“To our local communities and exhibitors, let us extend our renowned hospitality and showcase the best that Masvingo has to offer,” he said.
He called on Zimbabweans and visitors to celebrate unity in diversity, enjoy the culinary and musical showcases and create lasting memories during the tourism festival.
“With these few remarks, it is now my distinct honour to welcome you all once again to Masvingo Province for Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe 2026,” Hon. Chadzamira said.
The hosting of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo in Masvingo is expected to shine a spotlight on the province’s diverse tourism products while creating opportunities for investment, trade, cultural exchange and community participation in the growing tourism economy.
