Zim, SA Intensify Tourism Collaborations

Harare Post Reporters

South Africa has reaffirmed its commitment to fortifying tourism partnerships with Zimbabwe, as shared by prominent figures within the South African tourism circuit.

Ms. Khoza, the Managing Director of Nwali Heritage Route, unveiled in an interview that Zimbabwe ranks among South Africa's five foremost tourism markets.

Elucidating on this bond, Ms. Khoza remarked, “Zimbabwe stands tall in the realm of tourism. We view its prowess as a potential catalyst for the South African tourism milieu. Nwali Heritage is a prime attraction in Limpopo Province, where shared cultural threads with Zimbabweans are evident across the Limpopo River. This presents vast opportunities for mutual exploration in both nations, particularly in cultural tourism.”

Highlighting the importance of the Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo to South Africa, Ms. Khoza divulged, “Our earnest preparations for this expo each year stem from the extensive prospects it presents for our tourism sector. In fact, our pavilion at the Sanganai/Hlanganani consistently outshines our showcases at other exhibitions within South Africa.”

Mrs. Goapalelwe Sekela, another influential exhibitor from Mpumalanga Province, showered praise on the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) for their impeccable orchestration of the event.

“The ZTA's performance this year has been commendable, marking a discernible enhancement. Our interactions with international stakeholders have paved the way for burgeoning opportunities in regional tourism. We're gearing up to expand our horizons even beyond the African continent,” she articulated.

Sekela further shared her aspirations for deeper collaboration with Zimbabwe, emphasizing the country's pre-eminence in the African tourism sphere.

“Our vision transcends the confines of the Sanganai/Hlanganani expo. Zimbabwe’s market is a continental titan. Leveraging iconic sites like Victoria Falls can even extend tourism benefits to South Africa,” she noted.

South Africa's pronounced presence at this year's expo, manifested in a significant influx of exhibitors, underscores the nation's intent to lead in regional tourism endeavours.

 The profound economic synergies between Zimbabwe and South Africa, rooted not merely in trade but also in tourism, further amplify the potential of this alliance for the future.