BULAWAYO – The 15th Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo started Thursday in Bulawayo. The number of exhibitors reached 270, exceeding the initial target of 250.
Organizers of the annual expo, held physically this year for the first time in two years since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) are optimistic the outlook is brighter.
ZTA Managing Director Ms. Winnie Muchanyuka said they set a target of 250 exhibitors but managed to exceed that target after the number hit 270.
“We had set ourselves a target of 250 exhibitors, but we are happy to announce that we have exceeded this target. At present, 270 exhibitors, including 30 foreign companies, are taking part this year, which is more than initially expected.
“We are very happy to be here, but more than anything, we are delighted to have a physical exhibition this year after two virtual editions,” she said.
Six African countries, namely South Africa, Rwanda, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana and Malawi are exhibiting at this year’s Expo.
South Africa has the most exhibitors (10), while Rwanda has five, Zambia (four) and Mozambique seven.
“In addition, all ten provinces of the country have confirmed their participation in this year’s expo,” Muchakanyuka said.
A total of 100 buyers attend the fair and visited major tourist destinations in the country.
Buyers come from Germany, Great Britain, the United States of America, the Middle East, Australia and India.
“We are also very grateful and appreciate the overwhelming support from the sponsors who have helped us bring this number together.
“We have to remember that things have been difficult in the tourism industry after the global Covid pandemic.
“We’ve had incredible support, which to me is a recognition of how important tourism is to our economy,” she said.
- Business Reporter/ additional report by BH24
