Masvingo – The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Joanna Mamombe, attended the 19th Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo 2026, underscoring Parliament’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s tourism sector through stakeholder engagement and policy oversight.

The expo, held at the Gymkhana Events and Conference Centre in Masvingo, is Zimbabwe’s premier tourism showcase. The 19th edition featured a record 405 exhibitors and 153 buyers, including 125 international buyers representing key source markets such as China, India, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates.

Her participation demonstrates Parliament’s active role in ensuring tourism remains a key pillar of Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development.

The Committee has been actively engaged in oversight of the sector, including recent visits to assess progress on major tourism infrastructure projects and engagements with industry stakeholders on challenges affecting the sector.

The Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo has evolved beyond a conventional exhibition platform to become a strategic vehicle for forging business-to-business linkages, attracting investment, and driving provincial development. This year’s edition was held under the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism”.

Speaking at the official opening, President Emmerson Mnangagwa said the rotation of the expo among provinces gives practical effect to the government’s devolution and decentralisation agenda.

“The rotation of the Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo among our provinces gives practical effect to this unwavering commitment and ensures that tourism opportunities are spread throughout the country,” he said.

Tourism remains a critical contributor to Zimbabwe’s economy, contributing approximately 10 percent to Gross Domestic Product in the first quarter of 2026.

International tourist arrivals increased by 11 percent to 384,515 during the review period, while tourism receipts rose 14 percent to US$251 million.

The hosting of the expo in Masvingo has also catalysed significant infrastructure development, including the refurbishment of Masvingo Airport, upgraded access roads, and improvements to the conference venue.

Masvingo is home to major tourism attractions including the Great Zimbabwe National Monument, Kyle Recreational Park, and Gonarezhou National Park.

Parliament’s engagement at the expo reflects the legislative body’s ongoing efforts to strengthen stakeholder collaboration and promote policies that drive sustainable tourism development, investment, and job creation while preserving Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.

The Committee has previously conducted oversight visits and evidence sessions with tourism authorities to assess challenges and opportunities within the sector.