MINISTER of State for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province Judith Ncube has paid tribute to Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo for helping to expose the province to a wider world in terms of tourism.
Bulawayo used to be Zimbabwe’s industrial hub but the situation changed in the 90s when most companies closed shop or relocated to other parts of the country especially Harare leaving a sea of empty buildings.
However, since the decision to relocate Sanganai/Hlanganani to the province in 2016 there has been a remarkable change of fortune and the resident minister is grateful.
Speaking during buyers and media cocktail held at the NRZ Museum, Minister Ncube said Sanganai/Hlanganani has helped to profile Bulawayo’s beauty.
“The hosting of the annual tourism showcase, Hlanganani/Sanganai World Tourism Expo in Bulawayo over the past 4 years has been a much welcome move as it profiles our beautiful city and affords us an opportunity to meet the global tourism players like yourselves (buyers).
“We, therefore, are humbled to host you today and we hope your stay will be a memorable one.
“I am certain that from this visit you will see that we are indeed a must-visit destination and we hope you will include us in all your future travel plans,” she said.
According to the minister, Bulawayo Province offers many attraction sites due to its historical background and proximity to Matobo Hills as well as tourism investment opportunities waiting to be tapped in terms of lodges and hotels.
“The City of Bulawayo boasts of several iconic tourist attractions, such as the nearby Matobo Hills, which though in Matabeleland South is situated only 30-minute drive from the City.
“Matobo Hills is also home to the grave of the Matabele King, King Mzilikazi, father to King Lobengula who founded this, our great City. It is, therefore, a very significant historic place,” she said.
Bulawayo also houses the iconic National Railways of Zimbabwe Museum where visitors get an opportunity to see some of its oldest exhibit dating back to 1897 such as the most historic rail coaches belonging to Cecil John Rhodes
