By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka | Editor
The shimmering banks of the Save River recently came alive with music, laughter, and vibrant cultural exchange — but beyond the dancing and fireworks, something even more powerful was happening: local communities were cashing in.
For the first time in 18 years, Zimbabwe’s premier tourism showcase stepped out of Bulawayo and made its way to the Eastern Highlands, lighting up Buhera South with the spectacular Save Beach Party.
Nestled beside the iconic Birchenough Bridge — a structure so beloved it once graced the 20-cent coin — the festival was more than a celebration; it was a catalyst for economic and social upliftment.
From vendors and homestay operators to food suppliers and entertainers, the community seized the opportunity with both hands.
The event — launched by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry — brought together tourism buyers, local businesses, and thousands of festival-goers, creating a powerful new tourism economy on the river’s edge.
“We are delighted the government brought this event to Buhera,” said Ngonidzashe Mudekunye, Member of Parliament for Buhera South.
“We’ve seen real change — piped water, electricity, infrastructure improvements, and most importantly, jobs and income for our people.”
From small-scale entrepreneurs to families offering accommodation, business was booming. Food stalls ran out of stock, and demand for local goods soared.
“I made more selling balloons and doing face painting than I usually do in a whole week,” said Felix Hove, a cheerful vendor basking in the dual joy of business success and beachside entertainment.
At the heart of the Save Beach Party was not just the sound of music, but the beating heart of a community-driven tourism model.
With performances from top Zimbabwean artists, waterside sports, and cultural showcases, the event served as a blueprint for inclusive and sustainable tourism.
“In line with President Mnangagwa’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind, this festival is about more than celebration. It’s about empowering communities,” said Tourism Minister Barbara Rwodzi.
“We want local people to provide food, accommodation, and services — and benefit directly from tourism.”
With the government pledging to continue the Save Beach Party annually until 2030, the vision is clear: to transform this stretch of the Save River into a must-visit tourism hub — not just for fun, but for community-led development.
Each year, new opportunities will emerge: new vendors, upgraded infrastructure, improved livelihoods, and most importantly — a growing sense of pride and ownership from the people who call this place home.
Part of. the massive crowd that turned up for the Save Beach Party
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