Gymkhana Tourism Park, the venue for the 2026 edition of the annual Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo, is almost ready, with renovations reportedly around 80% complete.
The 19th edition of Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo will be held in Masvingo, in line with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Devolution Agenda of “leaving no one and no place behind.”
The decision to devolve Sanganai/Hlanganani to different cities also aligns with Vision 2030 and the economic transformation thrust under NDS2, which seeks to ensure that the Tourism Expo drives tourism infrastructure development, investment and economic opportunities across the provinces.
The main expo will take place from 9–12 September, preceded by a series of activities. These will begin with the September Sports Tourism Carnival from 1–4 September, followed by the Street Carnival on 5 September.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) confirmed that work at the venue had reached an advanced stage and that the park was almost ready to receive the expected 450 exhibitors.
‘’Works at the Gymkhana Tourism Park are about 80 percent complete, with the facility set to include a Restaurant, Bar, Gastronomy Hub, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority offices and Mini-Stadium.
‘’A Conference Centre is planned as a future development after Sanganai, further enhancing the Gymkhana Tourism Park’s capacity to host major Tourism and events activities in Masvingo. The refurbishment of Masvingo Airport, alongside road improvements and upgrades to the Expo site, will strengthen connectivity and leave infrastructure capable of supporting Tourism beyond the event,’’ read the statement.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi, together with the Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, toured the Gymkhana Tourism Park, Masvingo Airport and the Great Zimbabwe Visitor Centre to assess progress.
According to the ZTA, about 270 exhibitors have registered for the expo so far, against an expected 450 participants. Current registrations include 129 international buyers and 44 local buyers, with participation continuing to grow.
As part of the activities, the Great Zimbabwe Visitor Centre will host the welcome cocktail, giving international tourism players an opportunity to experience Masvingo while connecting with local tourism operators.
