Business Reporter
THE globally acclaimed 17th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo kicked off in Bulawayo Wednesday at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre bringing key stakeholders and critical policy makers together.
Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) masterclass punctuated the event’s first day which saw the Deputy Minister Tourism & Hospitality Minister Hon. Tongai Mnangagwa breaking down the significance of MICE as the sector’s strategy.
“The Expo has attracted a number of exhibitors, including tourism authorities authorities, airlines, tour operators exhibitors, key authorities and hoteliers.Delegates from across the globe are converging in Bulawayo to experience Zimbabwe’s tourism offerings and explore new business opportunities.
“The Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo 2024 is coming at a time when the global tourism industry has witnessed recovery in the post Covid19 era,” he said.
Mnangagwa said he was proud to host such a prestigious event which will create opportunities for collaboration and sustainable growth of the tourism sector.
“New investments , partnerships, and intiatives that will contribute to the development of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector and the wider regional economy are expected to be generated at this event ,” he said.
Over 400 exhibitors drawn from seven countries are currently in attendance at the premier event bringing together tourism industry players from across the globe, providing a unique opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their products and services, network with potential customers, and explore new business opportunities.
So far , The Speed Networking Session at the ongoing Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo has witnessed over 400 business meetings between buyers and exhibitors.
This year’s edition stands out for its further enhanced quality and the growing number of buyers with a keen interest in packaging Zimbabwe’s tourism offerings.
Making it during the day was the Scholastic Tourism Conference, where academics, educational institutions, learners, and tourism stakeholders gathered to discuss the theme, “Leveraging Heritage Based Education 5.0 for the Development of Tourism and Hospitality in Zimbabwe.” The theme realizes the importance of education in sustainable and modern tourism that is driven by research and understanding of changing trends.
