TOURISM and Hospitality Industry minister Barbara Rwodzi says Mashonaland West province will host the 2027 Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, signalling the government's push to decentralise tourism events and spread economic opportunities beyond traditional hubs such as Victoria Falls.
The announcement was made during the Mashonaland West Amai’s Provincial Traditional Cook-Out Competition held at The Odyssey, an event celebrating Zimbabwe’s culture, cuisine and heritage.
“The ministry has given Mashonaland West the nod to host the 2027 Expo because the province has the assets, the people and the readiness to host the world,” Rwodzi said.
The province will assume hosting duties, taking over from Masvingo province which is set to stage the 2026 edition of the country’s flagship tourism expo organised by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority.
Rwodzi said tourism development must extend beyond traditional tourism centres and embrace communities and cultural heritage.
“It is fitting that we make this announcement here in Kadoma, where culture and community are on full display. Tourism is about people and heritage, and the 2027 expo will showcase exactly that,” she said.
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Mashonaland West was selected for its strategic location and tourism potential, including destinations such as the Kariba Dam and the Chinhoyi Caves.
Rwodzi said Kariba continued to strengthen the province’s tourism profile.
“Victoria Falls ranks number one in Zimbabwe, followed by the Eastern Highlands, Great Zimbabwe and Kariba Dam in Mashonaland West at number four. Kariba’s presence in the top four shows that the province already has world-class products to showcase,” she said.
The minister said hosting the expo would create opportunities for businesses such as hotels and transport operators, crafters and farmers.
“For our people in Mashonaland West, this is a direct opportunity. The expo will open doors to markets and partnerships that can last long after 2027,” she said.
The Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo attracts exhibitors, buyers, investors and tour operators from across Africa and beyond, making it Zimbabwe’s premier tourism marketing platform.
Authorities are expected to begin preparations, including venue selection, infrastructure upgrade and stakeholder engagement, ahead of the 2027 event.