by Gideon Madzikatidze/Simbarashe Sithole in Harare
Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Tongai ‘Mafidi’ Mnangagwa, has announced plans to develop historic sites in the country’s oldest suburbs into heritage sites, aiming to boost sports tourism (Zimbabwe Grounds) and cultural heritage tourism.
The initiative includes declaring old roads in Highfields, Mushandirapamwe hotel, and other significant locations as heritage sites, highlighting their importance in the nation’s liberation struggle.
Speaking during his address in preparation of World Tourism day and the Fun run event, Mnangagwa announced that Highfields suburbs’ infrastructure has valuable features which deserve to be declared tourism sites as they evidence the country’s foundational history which is inseparable from some existing residential, hotels and social facilities used by liberation stalwarts (living and late heroes and heroines).
“Highfields has a rich history whose foundation and development are inseparable from Zimbabwe’s attainment of independence. It was centre for war strategies by liberation stalwarts who were behind formation of political parties who formulate and strategise on colonial forces resistance,” Mnangagwa said.
“Comrades were congregating here in Highfields, and mobilised many youths then to fight repressive colonial forces, hence some of these areas therefore bear emotional attachments to our history and identities. The plan involves transforming historic roads and suburbs into tourist attractions, showcasing the role of liberation icons who lived in these areas and planned their fight against colonial forces,” Mnangagwa added.
Furthermore, “By preserving these sites, Zimbabwe can promote its rich cultural heritage and history, attracting tourists interested in exploring the country’s past. Moreso, developing these heritage sites can also have economic benefits, including creating jobs and generating revenue for local communities,” he added.
Tongai Mnangagwa’s initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to promote tourism and cultural heritage. As Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, he has emphasised the importance of showcasing Zimbabwe’s unique attractions and experiences to the world.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe Sports for Economic Development (ZimSports4ED) founder, Gabriel Togarepi and other ZANU-PF’s provincial leadership have announced that their participation at the event is essential since it vividly acts as reminder to (and complement) the revolutionary party’s ideologies.
Moreover, “As you are aware that Zimbabwe’s President, Comrade Emmerson Mnangagwa and some of comrades serving under his administration were party of the country’s liberation movements and stalwarts, it is important for us as members of the ruling party to revive the memories on how they mobilised various youths to join the liberation struggle. The participation and venue has an emotional attachment and our presence is also there to cement and show how sport is used as a mechanism for mobilisation,” Togarepi said.
Furthermore, “To us as the youths joining our provincial party leadership, it serves as a reminder on how socialisation through sports helps in uniting, mobilising, reviving memories and driving both development narratives and realities,” Togarepi added.
Also important is the fact that, “We will also be transitioning from the government’s initial national development strategy into the second phase so it is important for us to be part of mechanisms that complement realisation of such policies and initiatives,” he added.
Zimbabwe has seen growth in its tourism sector, with initiatives like the Domestic Tourism Festive Season Campaign aimed at promoting local tourism. The country has also been working to strengthen its tourism industry through partnerships with other nations, highlighting its potential as a premier tourist destination.
The development of heritage sites in old suburbs can have a significant impact on Zimbabwe’s tourism industry and local communities. Heritage sites can attract tourists interested in history and culture, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector.
Tourism revenue can benefit local businesses and communities, promoting economic development.
With Highfields’ infrastructure (if declared), these sites can facilitate cultural exchange between visitors and locals, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of Zimbabwe’s rich heritage.