By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
If there was ever a reason to get out and explore your own backyard, World Tourism Day in Dzivarasekwa gave us one — and then some!
Under perfect blue skies, this lively Harare township lit up with music, dance, color, and cuisine as hundreds turned up to celebrate what makes Zimbabwe not just a destination, but an experience.
Think sizzling street food, traditional dance, cultural pride, and a real sense of community. This was tourism — township style.
Every year on 27 September, the global travel community marks World Tourism Day, a moment to reflect on how travel shapes our economies, empowers communities, and brings people together.
For Zimbabwe, this year’s edition was all about bringing it home.
“We’re saying tourism is not just for international travelers — it’s for everyone, everywhere, especially in our communities,” said Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi, who was the guest of honor at the event.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Rwodzi leads the carnival in Dzvivarasekwa to mark World Tourism Day
Minister Rwodzi shared the government’s new cluster-based approach to tourism — an exciting move that goes beyond traditional game drives and waterfalls. Picture this:
Township Tourism
Rural Tourism
Culture & Heritage
Sport Tourism
Religious Tourism
Agro & Study Tourism
It’s a bold, inclusive approach designed to make sure every corner of Zimbabwe becomes a tourism hotspot — with locals at the heart of the experience.
This year’s celebrations followed hot on the heels of Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi, Zimbabwe’s premier travel expo, held in Mutare.
From 10–12 September, the expo drew local, regional, and international tourism players — and wrapped up with the buzzing Save Bash Gala on 13 September, another shining moment for township tourism.
As if that wasn’t enough, the Ministry also hosted a Tourism Fun Run in Highfield, drawing children, youths, women, and people with disabilities in a spirited display of community wellness and inclusion.
It’s not just about growth, though. Minister Rwodzi made it clear that Zimbabwe is committed to sustainable tourism, saying:
“We’ve joined other sectors in reducing carbon footprints by promoting renewable energy, effective waste management, and the 3 Cs — Reduce, Recycle, and Reuse.”
World Tourism Day celebrations rotate provinces each year, ensuring no one and no place is left behind, aligning with Vision 2030. Last year, it was Gokwe in Midlands. This year, it was Dzivarasekwa’s time to shine — and shine it did.
From the infectious mbira beats to the smells of roasted maize and the proud faces of local artists, Zimbabwe showed the world what happens when culture, community, and tourism collide.
So next time you think of travel, remember — you don’t have to go far to go deep. Sometimes, the best destinations are right at home.
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