The ManicaPost
Liberty Dube Post Correspondent
A GROUP of tourism stakeholders and individuals in Manicaland will tomorrow host the second edition of the Vumba Premier Fair at Inn on the Vumba where various goods and fresh produce will be exhibited.
The group known as Friends of the Vumba was established to safeguard the environment, particularly the Vumba area which has been under threat from wood and animal poachers.
Beautiful indigenous and exotic trees in the area have been under serious threat from chainsaw-wielding poachers who have been gradually destroying the natural wonders. Animals such as kudus have also not been spared by poachers. The Vumba area banks on its scenic mountain ranges, botanical gardens, breezy weather and picturesque woodlands.
The premier fair starts at 9am and ends at 4pm.
In an interview, one of the organisers of the event, said proceeds from the potentially explosive fair would be used to fund activities to help curb environmental threats.
“Interesting events such as patrols, removing snares, drone display, children art competition and a walk around the scenic Inn on the Vumba are some of the activities that will take place during the fair.
“This year’s event will be bigger and better and we are expecting more than hundred people from all walks of life. Second hand goods, fresh produce, meat, medicinal plants, herbal remedies, art work, crafts and cosmetics, leather goods and handmade products among other things will be exhibited and sold.
“We will channel the proceeds to help our quest to preserve the natural beauty of the Bvumba Mountains. Preparations are at an advanced stage and we are happy that we have been receiving overwhelming response. They will be lots of entertainment for all ages.
“FOTV is a non-profit association which aims at reducing threats to the environment. We will take the opportunity to conscientise people about the importance of the environment and be sensitive to the flora and fauna,” said one of the organisers.
The association will also conduct a raffle as part of the fundraising campaign.
People will part with $2 to be part of the fair. Senior citizens and children will enjoy the fun for free.
Talented musician, Mande Snyman will provide music. The Inn on the Vumba is situated in the beautiful Bvumba Mountains about 10km from Mutare.
Eastern Highlands Experience president, Mr William Chatigu, said the event would help bolster the concept of domestic tourism while providing a platform to conscientise people about natural resources preservation.
Tourism players in the Eastern Highlands have been making tremendous efforts to counter the sharp drop in tourist arrivals from locals and neighbouring countries by holding events such exhibitions as well as hiking and walking competitions.
The inaugural edition which was fairly attended was held last year at the same venue.
