By Admore Mbonda, Kariba
KARIBA – Kariba’s tourism industry is seeking to rebuild confidence and revive business following the ferry disaster that claimed 97 lives, with the resort town set to host the 3rd Edition of the Kariba International Carnival and Tourism Showcase at Mopanibay Resort.
The three-day showcase will run from 28 to 31 October 2026 and is expected to attract about 5,000 visitors and more than 200 exhibitors from Zimbabwe and beyond.
Kariba carnival director Paul Marimberimbe say the carnival will be a platform to showcase Kariba’s tourism attractions, cultural heritage and investment opportunities at a time the destination is battling negative publicity after the August 11 Lake Kariba boat tragedy.
The event comes two months after the capsizing of the RIDA-operated Mbuya Nehanda ferry near Long Island, which killed 97 people, left 77 survivors and one person still missing – the deadliest maritime disaster in the lake’s history.
Tourism operators say the carnival is key to restoring traveller confidence.
Dancehall star Freeman is expected to headline the entertainment lineup, alongside cultural troupes, traditional dances and water-based activities.
A member of the organising committee said preparations at Mopanibay Resort are already underway.
“This is the third edition of the carnival and it is more than just a celebration. It is about sending a message that Kariba is open, safe and ready for business,” he said.
“We want to reassure domestic and international tourists that Kariba remains one of Zimbabwe’s best resort destinations. Freeman will headline, but we have a full package of tourism, culture and investment showcases.”
The showcase will include exhibitions, boat cruises, game drives, a street carnival, cultural shows and business-to-business engagements targeting investors in tourism infrastructure, fisheries and accommodation.
Kariba, which anchors the Zambezi Valley and shares Lake Kariba with Zambia, has struggled with low occupancies since the disaster, with some fishing camps and islands cut off due to suspended passenger ferry services.
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) and Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) are expected to participate, along with local authorities and private players.
The event will climax with a musical gala at Mopanibay Resort headlined by Freeman, whose performance is expected to draw huge crowds from Harare, Chinhoyi, Karoi and surrounding areas.
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