By Innocent Nxumalo
Youths in Matabeleland South are taking a proactive role in reviving domestic tourism by coming up with various expeditions, including mountain hiking.
The initiative comes as Zimbabwe’s tourism industry makes a steady rebound from the devastating impact of Covid-19, and the promotion and diversification of domestic tourism events are being promoted as a key strategy for the sector.
It is against this background that youths in Matabeleland South are forging ahead with the Vakatsha Programme and have formed groups to undertake fascinating events such as mountain hiking.
“We don’t have to go far to enjoy what Zimbabwe has to offer. We start from what we have around us and then the culture of enjoying esthetic scenery is promoted,” a youth from the community said.
“I never thought mountain climbing is this exciting, it was my first time joining the group. Henceforth, this Vakatsha initiative will dominate my weekend schedules,” another said.
Tourism players are confident that the country is under-explored, highlighting that Zimbabweans should lead in discovering and showcasing least known tourism treasures.
“We have a lot of hidden treasures, we have absolutely gorgeous landscapes which are a massive draw card to the young and old alike,” Sentinel Limpopo Safari operator, Mrs Vanessa Bristow said
The Shanya/ Vakatsha and MICE tourism initiatives spearheaded by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority have repositioned Destination Zimbabwe as a land of wonders to locals and foreign visitors.
