Manicaland SMEs Gear Up For Upcoming Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo

By Evans Jona

Mutare — Manicaland is set to showcase its cultural wealth and business ingenuity when the province hosts this year’s Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanai World Tourism Expo from 10 to 12 September, with Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) expecting to take centre stage.

Manicaland Chamber of SMEs Chairperson and tourism player Kudzai Makore said the Expo presents a golden opportunity for local entrepreneurs to connect with international buyers and tourism players. “This Expo gives our SMEs direct access to international buyers. It’s a rare chance to secure deals, form partnerships and put Manicaland on the global tourism and trade map,” he said.

Manicaland, often described as Zimbabwe’s tourism jewel, is home to some of the country’s most renowned attractions including the Nyanga Highlands, Mutarazi Falls, the Vumba Botanical Gardens, the Chimanimani mountain ranges and waterfalls, as well as Chipinge’s tea estates and the iconic Birchenough Bridge. Makore said the province’s natural beauty, combined with its rich culture and agro-based industries, makes it uniquely placed to benefit from the international attention the Expo brings.

He said SMEs would use the platform to exhibit basketry, ceramics, textiles, honey, dairy products, tea, coffee, timber, and upcycled furniture. “SMEs will expand beyond their localised markets, increase brand visibility and gain exposure to networks that offer training, funding and long-term growth support,” Makore said.

Last year’s Expo, held in Bulawayo, attracted over 300 exhibitors and more than 100 international buyers from countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, the United Kingdom and Germany. Several SMEs that took part reported immediate benefits, including firm orders, international partnerships and enhanced market visibility. Makore said these experiences showed the tangible rewards that SMEs from Manicaland can expect this year.

Makore noted that to fully capitalize on the opportunities presented by the Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo, SMEs in Manicaland need support from both government and Expo organizers. “This support should address financial, informational and logistical barriers that often hinder small businesses from participating effectively in such large-scale events. SMEs often lack the capital to cover exhibition fees, travel, accommodation and marketing materials. The government can provide targeted financial support by offering subsidies on exhibition fees, grants specifically for SMEs, low-interest loans and tax incentives,” he said.

He added that beyond financial backing, Mutare itself must be equipped to host an event of this magnitude. “Ensuring that the hosting city has the necessary infrastructure to support a large influx of visitors and exhibitors is key. This includes reliable road networks and improved air access to Mutare and other tourism destinations within the province,” Makore said.

Looking ahead, Makore said Manicaland’s SMEs are poised to play a pivotal role in the future growth of Zimbabwe’s tourism and trade. “Platforms like expos are crucial in facilitating this. By showcasing unique products and services — from agriculture and forestry to crafts and tourism — SMEs can market tea, coffee, macadamia nuts, avocados and other fruits, including value-added processed products through packaging and branding for wider markets. Expos continue to serve as a bridge between Manicaland’s rich potential and broader Zimbabwean and international markets. By providing a platform for exposure, networking and investment, they empower SMEs to become significant drivers of the province’s economic development, contributing directly to Zimbabwe’s overall tourism and trade growth,” he said.

Meanwhile, preparations are in high gear ahead of the Expo, with Air Zimbabwe launching daily return flights between Harare and Mutare from 8 to 14 September. The pilot service, using the Grand Reef Airstrip 20 kilometres west of the city, aims to ease travel for exhibitors, delegates, and visitors, and strengthen tourism links between key destinations in Zimbabwe.

At the same time, the Mutare City Council and contractors are giving the venue at Mutare Sports Club a major facelift, while citywide improvements are underway to ensure the province welcomes guests in top form. With these measures, Manicaland is positioning itself not just as a host, but as a vibrant showcase of Zimbabwe’s tourism and trade potential.