The ManicaPost
Liberty Dube
Business Correspondent
TOURISM players in Manicaland have commenced preparations for this year’s Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ) national congress slated for Nyanga in November.
Players in the industry have described the development as an endorsement of Eastern Highlands as a prime tourist destination.
The congress will be held from November 22 to 24.
Manicaland Province last held the congress four years ago in Mutare where close to 400 players and stakeholders from across the country attended.
This year’s event is expected to draw more participants.
HAZ is the trade association representing the interests of owners and operators of hotels, restaurants, clubs and related establishments across the country.
Tourism players interviewed said the decision to have Manicaland host the prestigious annual event is a serious seal of approval that the province is doing well in the tourism business.
They also described it as a rich platform for networking.
HAZ Manicaland president, Mr Adonis Mutigwe said: “It is a serious show of confidence, which is humbling. It is a seal of approval and appreciation of the work that was done by the previous provincial leadership, particularly my predecessor, Mr Charlton Chimbira.
“Choosing a destination for a hospitality congress of this magnitude is not easy and this is a sign that we are doing something right and there is a lot of progress. We are excited with the development and I must say we are ready to host such an event. It is an exciting challenge. It is not a one-man show, but accepting the challenge and making it a success together is now our major goal.”
Montclair Hotel and Casino hotel general manager, Mr Brian Nyakutombwa said: “This is a welcome development as this gives the much-needed exposure to the facilities in the region. It is an opportunity for the region to showcase their services and products to stakeholders and to fellow operators.
“It is also an opportunity for the operators to get together, exchange ideas and map the way forward on how the hospitality industry in the province and in the country at large can grow.
“In fact, it is a rich platform for networking. It is a win-win deal for suppliers, stakeholders and players, among others. We are happy as Manicaland and Nyanga in particular to host this year’s conference. We look forward to the full participation for those in Nyanga and across the Eastern Highlands.”
Troutberk Inn Resort’s general manager, Mr Ray Mavhu said: “It is a very important event.
“It is a big event where stakeholders come together and deliberate extensively on issues pertaining to tourism in the country. It is a positive endorsement which will have a lot of many positives. A lot of big conferences that used to be held in Victoria Falls over the years are now coming here, which is greatly appreciated.”
Last year’s HAZ annual congress was held in Victoria Falls where more than 300 hospitality players from across the country gathered and deliberate on the state of the tourism sector.
