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Locadia Mavhudzi, Chronicle Reporter
PRESIDENT Mugabe’s visit to Gweru for the Presidential Youth Interface Rally brought brisk business to hotels and lodges in and around Gweru, the Hospitaity Association of Zimbabwe (Haz), said yesterday.

In an interview yesterday, Haz Midlands Chapter secretary, Mr Thomas Nyirenda said hotels and lodges were fully booked as a result of the rally.

“It has been a good week for the hospitality industry. Fairmile Hotel, Village Lodge, Mpumalanga Lodge, Khanyi Guest Lodge and Tranquility Lodges are fully booked,” said Mr Nyirenda.

He said the boost in hospitality business has also spilled over to surrounding towns like Kwekwe and Shurugwi.

Fast foods outlets and restaurants were also busy as long and winding queues were common at most food outlets. Service stations, vendors and retail shops were not left out as they also recorded good business.

Gweru Hawkers and Vendors’ Association acting chairperson Mr Lovemore Tingaka said they had taken advantage of the huge numbers and increased their stocks.

Private homes, colleges and schools also provided alternative accommodation for people coming from outside Gweru.

Nightclubs and bars also recorded brisk business as revellers danced the night away ahead of the rally.