By Tendai Chisiri
MASVINGO – In line with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Devolution Agenda of “leaving no one and no place behind,” preparations are in full swing for the 19th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo, set to be hosted in Masvingo from 9–12 September 2026.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, together with Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Hon. Ezra Chadzamira, toured the Gymkhana Tourism Park, Masvingo Airport and the Great Zimbabwe Visitor Centre this week to assess progress.
The decision to take the country’s premier tourism showcase to different cities is aligned with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2). Officials say the devolved model is designed to drive tourism infrastructure, investment and economic opportunities across provinces, rather than centralizing benefits in Harare.
“This is about unlocking potential in every corner of the country,” Minister Rwodzi said. “Masvingo’s strategic position along the regional Cape-to-Cairo corridor presents an opportunity to unlock investment in five-star accommodation, conference facilities, restaurants, lodges and other tourism products.”
Works at the Gymkhana Tourism Park are about 80 percent complete. Once finished, the facility will house a restaurant, bar, gastronomy hub, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority offices and a mini-stadium. A conference centre is also planned as a post-Expo development to boost Masvingo’s capacity to host major tourism and events.
Refurbishments at Masvingo Airport, alongside road improvements and upgrades to the Expo site, are expected to strengthen connectivity and leave lasting infrastructure to support tourism beyond the event.
The 19th edition will kick off with the September Sports Tourism Carnival from 1–4 September, followed by the Street Carnival on 5 September. The main Expo runs from 9–12 September, with Masvingo’s rich heritage — particularly the iconic Great Zimbabwe — providing the backdrop.
The 19th edition will kick off with the September Sports Tourism Carnival from 1–4 September, followed by the Street Carnival on 5 September. The main Expo runs from 9–12 September, with Masvingo’s rich heritage — particularly the iconic Great Zimbabwe — providing the backdrop.
So far, 270 exhibitors have registered, with 450 expected to participate. Current buyer registrations stand at 129 international and 44 local buyers, with numbers still rising.
The Great Zimbabwe Visitor Centre will host the welcome cocktail, giving international tourism players a chance to experience the province and connect with local operators.
Officials noted growing global interest. Australia will participate in Sanganai for the first time following Zimbabwe’s recent tourism roadshow. There has also been increased interest from Indian tourists to destinations showcased at the previous Expo in the Eastern Highlands.
“This devolved model is strengthening the link between international market exposure, tourist growth, investment and sustainable opportunities for local communities,” Minister Rwodzi said.
In attendance during the tour were Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Hon. Tongai Mnangagwa, Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Hospitality Industry Dr. Takaruza Munyanyiwa, Permanent Secretary for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Mr. Pazvakavambwa, representatives from Masvingo City Council and other key stakeholders.
The whole-of-government approach, organizers said, is aimed at delivering a successful Expo and maximizing its long-term tourism and economic benefits for Masvingo and surrounding communities.
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