MOTO Republik, with support from Unesco, is spearheading the rehabilitation and development of the Great Zimbabwe world heritage site project.
This initiative is designed to enhance the site's cultural significance while fostering sustainable tourism and economic growth for local communities.
The project was launched in July with a series of stakeholder consultations and focus group discussions held in Masvingo. These meetings brought together 26 key stakeholders, including local leaders, government officials, cultural experts, and community representatives.
"The discussions focused on the challenges facing the Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site, particularly the low volume of tourism and the limited economic benefits reaching nearby communities.
Stakeholders explored strategies to better manage the site, attract more visitors, and ensure that local communities benefit directly from tourism activities," reads a statement.
Focus group discussions delved deeper into these issues, reinforcing the cultural and historical importance of the Great Zimbabwe Heritage Site.
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Participants emphasized the need to diversify tourist offerings, such as introducing cultural festivals, guided tours, and interactive experiences that would allow visitors to engage more deeply with the site's rich heritage.
Some of the traditional custodians of the site, Chief Charumbira, Chief Mugabe, and Chief Nemamwa welcomed the project and expressed their commitment to enhancing the tourist experience.
Chief Mugabe has future plans of constructing a large hut for his court sessions, which would be open to the public and tourists, providing a unique glimpse into traditional court proceedings.
Recognising the importance of broadening the tourism experience in Masvingo and beyond, participants in the discussions identified the need for a wider range of tourist activities.
These initiatives aim not only to draw more visitors, but also to create a more immersive and enriching experience.
Moto Republik understands that the success of this project hinges on the support of key stakeholders, particularly the traditional leadership represented by the chiefs.
The project team has engaged with three chiefs, all of whom have expressed strong enthusiasm for the project.
They highlighted the potential for skill development and economic growth that the project could bring to their communities.
The chiefs also emphasised the need for sustainable tourism practices that would protect the heritage site while providing economic opportunities for local people.