GOVERNMENT has expressed its support for township tourism, saying it is one of the unique places that Africa has.
Speaking ahead of the Sangani/Hlanganani Expo in Bulawayo on Friday, Tourism and Hospitality deputy minister Tongai Mnangagwa said government was willing to work with various sectors and individuals to promote township tourism.
“Zimbabweans are everywhere in the world and have gained a vast amount of knowledge and experience. That’s what we want. The President [Emmerson Mnangagwa] is saying come back home and implement all that you have learnt in a more vibrant and fun way,” Mnangagwa said.
“We went to a place called Maboneng in Bulawayo, a place that was properly done and you can experience your Soweto and your busy corner. It was once run by the city council, but someone has redone it and we had drinks there, met the owners and understood their vision.
“That’s the thing, a product can be best created and understood by its owner. We can then market it, so come let’s talk and see how best we can assist each other.”
Mnangagwa also urged local media to lead in driving regional tourism.
“For example, Bulawayo-based journalists should take a lead role in driving regional tourism promotion due to their proximity to tourist attractions, as they are best positioned to effectively convey the appeal of nearby tourist sites, given their geographical proximity, while emphasising the availability of media from other regions to provide additional support, this is in the true spirit of devolution,” he said.
This year’s edition of the Sangani/Hlanganani exhibition will take place on September 12.
