Harare – Zimbabwe is positioning tourism as a key driver of economic transformation as the country prepares to host the 19th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo in Masvingo from 9 to 12 September 2026.
The expo will form part of Zimbabwe’s World Tourism Month activities, with the country seeking to attract tourists, investors and international markets while creating opportunities for businesses and communities across the tourism value chain.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi said this during a media briefing on World Tourism Month 2026 and the upcoming tourism expo. 
She said tourism is central to Zimbabwe’s economic transformation because of its potential to create investment opportunities, employment and benefits for local communities.
Rwodzi also pointed to the role of the media in promoting Zimbabwe’s tourism sector by telling the country’s tourism story, showcasing its natural, cultural, historical and heritage attractions and strengthening its position as an international destination.
The 2026 Tourism Month is being held under the UN Tourism theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” placing technology, innovation and destination promotion at the centre of this year’s programme.
The Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo has attracted 392 exhibitors, representing 98 per cent of the targeted 400 exhibitors. This is a 14.3 per cent increase from the 343 exhibitors recorded last year.
The event has also registered 133 international buyers, a 49.4 per cent increase from the 89 buyers who participated in the previous edition. The buyers are drawn from key tourism markets in Africa and other parts of the world.
The programme will include a September Sports Tourism Carnival, business networking sessions, tourism investment activities, gastronomy events, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions, cultural activities and familiarisation tours.
Masvingo has been selected as the host city as Zimbabwe seeks to strengthen its heritage led tourism and devolution agenda, with the Great Zimbabwe Monument serving as a major attraction.
The expo is also being used to create opportunities for communities and local enterprises while leaving behind improved infrastructure in the province.
Through a whole of government approach, preparations have included the refurbishment of Masvingo Airport, road improvements and upgrades to facilities at the Gymkhana Events and Conference Centre.
Rwodzi commended the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, the Office of the Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, government departments, the City of Masvingo, tourism stakeholders and the media for their contribution to preparations for the expo.
She said effective communication remains important in attracting tourists, investment and new markets to Zimbabwe.
Preparations at the main venue are reported to be 90 per cent complete, while registration for the event remains open.
