Zim GBC News | Political Reporter
MUTARE – Hotels and lodges across Manicaland are experiencing a significant surge in bookings as the province prepares to host the 22nd ZANU PF Annual National People’s Conference, with industry leaders describing it as one of the busiest periods of the year.
The conference, themed “Attainment of Vision 2030 through economic empowerment and value addition,” is set to run from October 13 to 18, drawing upwards of 4,000 delegates to Mutare. The influx has created a ripple effect, filling accommodations not only in Mutare but also in surrounding areas like Vumba, Nyanga, and Rusape.
In an interview, the Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe’s outgoing president, Mr. Brian Nyakutombwa, confirmed the unprecedented demand.
“All the accommodation providers in and around Mutare have benefitted from this conference as they are fully booked,” said Mr. Nyakutombwa, who is also the general manager of Manica Skyview Hotel.
“I am not only talking about big hotels, but lodges and even some small properties are also fully booked for the conference days.”
He highlighted that the event falls under MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions), a key driver of economic activity.
“If we could have such conferences regularly in Manicaland, we would be grateful,” he added.
The economic impact extends beyond room bookings. Mr. William Chatigu, chairman of the Eastern Highlands Experience, pointed to the broader “tourism multiplier effect” stimulating the local economy.
“This massive conference is bringing and leaving quite a mark in the tourism and hospitality industry,” Mr. Chatigu stated.
“It is not just the accommodation service providers that are benefiting, but even the farmer in Manicaland also, and the tourism sector as a whole, is reaping the rewards because the focus is on Mutare right now.”
He also noted the lasting benefits of infrastructural improvements undertaken for the conference.
“Despite the immediate business, we are also gaining from the infrastructural developments that come with it… We expect an influx of visitors to Manicaland during the festive season.”
However, the high demand has exposed a need for greater investment in the region’s hospitality infrastructure. Mr. Chatigu observed that the current shortage necessitates that some delegates are accommodated as far as Nyanga and Rusape, underscoring the need for more hotels and lodges to be constructed in the area.
With final preparations at the main venue, Mutare Polytechnic’s Pavilion Ground, now complete, the province is poised for a week of significant economic activity, hoping to close the year on a high note following the recent Sanganai/Hlanganani World Expo.
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