IN a desperate bid to raise funds for the construction of legacy projects ahead of the United Nations World Tourism (UNWTO) general assembly, Tourism and Hospitality minister Walter Mzembi has extended a begging bowl to the diplomatic community.
Business Reporter
At least 1 200 hectares of land has been set aside for the construction of legacy assets in Victoria Falls. Mzembi on Tuesday appealed to diplomats to contribute to the building of infrastructure in the resort town of Victoria Falls.
The legacy projects proposed include the construction of a conference centre as well as the upgrading of the Victoria Falls Airport.
“We pledge the prime land and we expect you to pledge your assets. We are not interfering with Victoria Falls now, but the assets can be built even after the UNWTO conference. I am inviting delegates to plant legacy assets,” said Mzembi.
“The goodwill of diplomatic community and governments represented is therefore invited to seek areas of interventions in order to make this general assembly a uniquely African success.”
Mzembi, however, said there was increased interest in the infrastructure projects in Victoria Falls.
“There is a huge interest from foreigners on the construction of legacy assets. So far an interest of close to $1 billion is there for construction of legacy assets,” he said.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
He could, however, not divulge where the interest was coming from. Diplomats that attended the meeting include those from Zambia, Nigeria, United States, China and other countries.
Mzembi said the country will be appointing a professional organiser for the UNWTO conference this week, adding that the country had already passed two tests by the UNWTO inspectorate teams.
“The last executive council before the General Assembly will meet in Serbia end of May to tie up all the loose ends if there should be any, otherwise it will largely be seized with policy and programming issues,” he said.
Zimbabwe will co-host the conference with Zambia from August 24-29 this year.
