Sports / Other
Zimbabwe welcomes MCC, showcases sports tourism potential
09 Oct 2025 at 07:22hrs |
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HARARE - Zimbabwe has welcomed the return of England's iconic Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) after a 60-year absence, with the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry hailing the visit as a milestone for sports diplomacy and tourism development.
Speaking at a dinner held in Harare on October 8, 2025, Permanent Secretary Dr. Taka Munyanyiwa praised cricket's power to unite people across borders and cultures.
"Cricket is more than a game; it is a universal language that fosters friendship, mutual respect, and understanding—values essential in our interconnected world," Munyanyiwa said.
He described MCC's return as a moment of great significance for both the sporting fraternity and bilateral ties between Zimbabwe and England.
"After a remarkable 60 years of absence, the Marylebone Cricket Club's return is a powerful gesture. I understand you've already played thrilling matches in Kwekwe against our very own Rhinos," he added.
Munyanyiwa emphasized that sports tourism is a key pillar of Zimbabwe's tourism strategy, with the Ministry actively promoting the Sports Tourism Cluster to showcase the country's landscapes, heritage, and culture.
"Through events like this, we have the opportunity to highlight Zimbabwe's breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant communities," he said.
He also spotlighted Victoria Falls as a prime destination for future cricket fixtures, noting its status as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and its potential to host international sporting events.
"We invite you to return and play your games in our majestic Victoria Falls. The development of a state-of-the-art cricket stadium is underway, and we're preparing for matches earmarked for 2026/27 and beyond," Munyanyiwa said.
The MCC visit not only elevates Zimbabwe's cricketing profile but also underscores the role of sport in driving economic growth, infrastructure investment, and community engagement.
Zimbabwe's government, under President Emmerson Mnangagwa, continues to prioritise tourism and sport as part of its Vision 2030 agenda to position the country as a competitive and safe destination of choice.
Speaking at a dinner held in Harare on October 8, 2025, Permanent Secretary Dr. Taka Munyanyiwa praised cricket's power to unite people across borders and cultures.
"Cricket is more than a game; it is a universal language that fosters friendship, mutual respect, and understanding—values essential in our interconnected world," Munyanyiwa said.
He described MCC's return as a moment of great significance for both the sporting fraternity and bilateral ties between Zimbabwe and England.
"After a remarkable 60 years of absence, the Marylebone Cricket Club's return is a powerful gesture. I understand you've already played thrilling matches in Kwekwe against our very own Rhinos," he added.
"Through events like this, we have the opportunity to highlight Zimbabwe's breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant communities," he said.
He also spotlighted Victoria Falls as a prime destination for future cricket fixtures, noting its status as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and its potential to host international sporting events.
"We invite you to return and play your games in our majestic Victoria Falls. The development of a state-of-the-art cricket stadium is underway, and we're preparing for matches earmarked for 2026/27 and beyond," Munyanyiwa said.
The MCC visit not only elevates Zimbabwe's cricketing profile but also underscores the role of sport in driving economic growth, infrastructure investment, and community engagement.
Zimbabwe's government, under President Emmerson Mnangagwa, continues to prioritise tourism and sport as part of its Vision 2030 agenda to position the country as a competitive and safe destination of choice.
Source - Byo24News
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