The ManicaPost
Liberty Dube Business Correspondent
VUMBA Gateway Gardens – situated less than 10km from Mutare – has become the sought after ideal venue for private parties, weddings and other gatherings, apart from being a tourist attraction. The place is nestled in scenic Vumba Mountains and is situated along Vumba road. It’s flora, fauna and serene environs is a marvel to local and international visitors who flock the place for a refreshing atmosphere.
Apparently, it has fast become a major boost for domestic tourism. The facility offers services such as weddings, private parties among other gatherings. It has a spacious conference centre. What captures hearts of many is the life-sized metal sculpture of the big five animals and falling waters. The falls are a awesome sight. The well-wooded gardens are livened up by active birdlife where the sounds and squeaks of birds of different species add a therapeutic melody to the ears.
The brains behind the resuscitated tourism wonder, Ms Susan Mapara-Peters, who is an emblem of success in business said they have recorded a considerable number of weddings and other gatherings thanks to the charming beautiful panoramic views. Ms Mapara-Peters grew up in the sprawling suburb of Sakubva and has travelled for many years to some Western countries. She runs a number of businesses in Harare including gyms.
“One should feel like a king or queen on a wedding day and private functions. The place helps create fond and memorable experience. The venue has peaceful environs with sweeping rolling lawns, botanical flowers boats of medium dam with canoes and mature exotic and indigenous trees which give you a memorable time of your wedding,” she said.
Ms Mapara-Peters is a former supermodel from three decades ago. She is an affable businesswoman whose passion for women empowerment is well documented. She is one of the first black women to venture into the cosmetics industry with the likes of Kubi Indi in the early 1980s.
