Kariba to host 2027 Sanganayi/Hlanganani expo as Zimbabwe spreads tourism events
Kariba to host 2027 Sanganayi/Hlanganani expo as Zimbabwe spreads tourism events
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KARIBA will host the Sanganayi/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo in September 2027, as the Government moves to rotate high-profile tourism events across the country and broaden the marketing of emerging destinations.
The announcement was made in Kariba during the launch of the National Tourism Sector Strategy 2026–2030 at Waterfront Resort, where the Ministry’s Chief Director for Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Tarisai Musonza, confirmed the town would take over hosting duties for the flagship expo.
“I can confirm that Kariba will be the proud host of Sanganayi/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo 2027,” Musonza said.
Officials said the decision is intended to position Kariba as a full tourism destination, rather than a place primarily associated with power generation. Musonza said the town’s offering includes Lake Kariba, wildlife experiences, fishing culture, scenic landscapes and cultural heritage.
“This Expo will position Kariba as more than just a power generation hub,” she said. “Lake Kariba, wildlife, fishing and cultural heritage make this a world-class destination. This Expo will put Kariba on the global map and drive investment in infrastructure, hotels and services.”
Musonza also acknowledged that shifting the expo away from established venues can be demanding, particularly because international buyers expect conference facilities, accommodation and transport arrangements that meet global standards.
“For years it was in Bulawayo. Last year we went to Mutare. It’s never easy because international buyers expect proper facilities. But we have managed, and we will do the same for Kariba,” she said.
This year’s Sanganayi/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo is scheduled for Masvingo, but Musonza urged Kariba’s authorities and tourism industry to begin preparations immediately, including identifying exhibition space and ensuring adequate accommodation capacity for exhibitors, buyers and visitors.
“The sooner we plan, the better,” she said. “Where will the exhibition be held? Where will we accommodate everyone? The traffic exhibitors, buyers, tourists is huge. Planning must start now.”
She added that readiness extends beyond venues to public infrastructure and services, including roads, water supply and the broader hospitality offering. “For roads, water, restaurants—these must be ready,” Musonza said, adding that government would coordinate support towards 2027.
Local tourism stakeholders welcomed the move, saying it would create a chance for Kariba-based businesses to pitch directly to international buyers and build wider visibility for products such as lodges, houseboats and tour services.
Kariba Business and Tourism Indaba Coordinator Cephas Shonhiwa said the expo offered new marketing opportunities but required urgent upgrades in key areas. “Sanganayi 2027 lets us market our lodges, houseboats and tours directly to international buyers. But we must urgently upgrade conference venues and transport,” Shonhiwa said. “We can’t be caught unprepared.”
Kariba Mayor Ralph Nyasha said the municipality had begun aligning local plans with the expectations that come with hosting a major international tourism showcase. “Kariba is already acting,” Nyasha said. “Roads and public facilities are being upgraded. We’re working with the private sector to meet global standards. The economic impact will be massive for our people.”
The expo is Zimbabwe’s main tourism showcase and is being used as part of wider efforts to grow arrivals, boost domestic tourism and unlock investment. The National Tourism Sector Strategy 2026–2030 sets out a push to reach US$5 billion in annual tourism earnings by 2030, with major events expected to play a key role in driving visibility and demand.
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