Manicaland ready for Hlanganani

Manicaland Province has declared its full readiness to host the prestigious Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo for the first time outside Bulawayo, with extensive upgrades to key infrastructure, tourism sites, and hospitality facilities now in progress.

The provincial government, in collaboration with the private sector, has launched an intensive campaign to prepare for the global showcase, which is expected to draw a surge of local and international visitors to the mountainous, picturesque region. The decision to bring the expo to Manicaland marks a major milestone in decentralising national tourism activities and spotlighting the province's vast and largely untapped tourism potential.

Permanent Secretary for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Abiot Maronge, said the province had put in place all necessary institutional frameworks to deliver a flawless event. He confirmed that more than ten dedicated committees have been established to oversee various aspects of preparation, including infrastructure development, exhibitor registration, and venue enhancements.

Mr Maronge noted that rehabilitation of major tourism sites such as the Hot Springs Resort in Chimanimani and Nyachowe Falls would begin before the end of June. Work will also commence on city roads and water infrastructure in Mutare, where the main event venue, Mutare Sports Club, will undergo a full-scale facelift to meet the demands of the international event.

He revealed that over US$100,000 had already been secured for the first phase of upgrading the Hot Springs Resort, which includes improving accommodation and revamping the surrounding environment to meet global tourism standards.

With thousands of visitors expected, accommodation is one of the most pressing challenges facing the host city. Mutare currently offers approximately 1,700 rooms, accommodating up to 3,900 guests, but authorities estimate a shortfall of about 800 rooms. To help bridge the gap, Mr Maronge called on residents with quality private accommodation to register with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), enabling them to host guests and benefit financially.

"There is a significant opportunity here for Mutare residents," Mr Maronge said. "Some guests may even prefer the homely feel of private accommodation. We urge those with suitable facilities to come forward and get registered so they can benefit from this international event."

The provincial leadership has also extended a call to the business community to actively participate in preparations and capitalise on the economic opportunities presented by the expo. Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, is expected to meet with business leaders next week to discuss potential partnerships and collaborative ventures with government departments.

"The Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo is not just a tourism event; it is an economic opportunity for everyone in Manicaland," said Mr Maronge. "We want hoteliers, restaurant owners, transport operators, shopkeepers, and even informal traders to benefit. The entire community should feel the economic ripple effect of hosting this prestigious event."

To ensure the highest standards, the ZTA is conducting ongoing inspections of hotels, lodges, and restaurants, most of which are privately owned, to ensure facilities are upgraded accordingly. Mr Maronge confirmed that some critical observations have already been made, and business owners have been advised to make the necessary improvements ahead of the expo.

Mutare Sports Club, which will host the main event, is set for a major transformation. Renovations will include modernising the changing rooms, restaurants, pavilions, and spectator areas. Some outdated structures will be demolished and rebuilt. The tennis court, kitchen, bar, and parking areas will also be revamped to meet the expected standard. Local construction companies will be involved in the rehabilitation works, creating employment and stimulating the local economy in the process.

Mr Maronge emphasised that the rehabilitation work would begin by the end of June, with a target for all necessary preparations to be completed by the end of August.

"We are fully committed to delivering a successful Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo," he said. "This is our chance to show the world the beauty and potential of Manicaland, and we intend to make the most of it."