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Michelle Moyo, [email protected]

Hwange Local Board has reserved vast land for the construction of tourism and hospitality facilities as it seeks to maximise on its proximity to the country’s biggest wildlife sanctuary, Hwange National Park and the Victoria Falls.

The local authority is poised to be a favourable location for the setting-up of hospitality infrastructure and over the past few years, it has been marketing Hwange as a tourist destination with mining activities within it.

Hwange Local Board communication manager Dumisani Nsingo yesterday told Business Chronicle that the local board recently advertised for the sale of land for a hotel and lodge and it expects the buyers of these two properties to construct upmarket facilities.

“Hwange Urban only has a one-star hotel and a few lodges. There is still a need for the setting up of upmarket lodges,” said Mr Nsingo.

“As Hwange, we have realised that we are not reaping much from the tourism sector despite our huge potential premised on our rich natural and historic heritage.

“Tourism is one of the key economic sectors of the country and the sector’s contribution to economic empowerment, employment creation, foreign currency generation and infrastructure development continues to be significant.”

He added: “Our proximity to the country’s biggest wildlife sanctuary, Hwange National Park and one of the seventh wonders of the world, the Victoria Falls makes it a favourable location for the setting up of hospitality infrastructure.”

Mr Nsingo noted that investors in the sector are assured of big returns due to the ever-high tourist arrivals on different expeditions.

“Apart from the Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls, Hwange has numerous attractions such as the Kamandama Mine Disaster Memorial site, Bumbusi and Shangano ruins. Visitors can also afford to tour coal-mining activities.

“Zimbabwe Tourism Authority is also calling for investments in water sports, theme parks, cable cars among other tourist related products and as Hwange Local Board we can provide areas for some of these activities.”

The local board has also advertised commercial stands as part of efforts to lure potential investors to tap into the lucrative retail sector.

The huge investment in the coal mining and power generation in Hwange has led to massive employment creation, said Mr Nsingo.

“The growth in employment and wages gives consumers some spending power. Thus, making retailing one of the most lucrative businesses to venture into.

“Hwange Local Board offers commercial stands for the construction of retail shops in all its suburbs. It also has prime land on offer at its proposed Civic Centre site.” —@Lo7246Lovelyn