06/09/2026
SPORTS TOURISM CARNIVAL LEADS TO SANGANAI EXPO
BY Kudzai Majurira
The inaugural September Sports Tourism Carnival wrapped up at Mucheke Stadium on 5 September 2026, proving that sport can grow tourism and boost local businesses.
Hosted with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority from 31 August, the carnival brought together tertiary institutions, national teams and community teams. Fans enjoyed football, netball, cricket, tennis, basketball, volleyball, boxing, marathon, pool, golf and rugby over six days.
The event brought players and visitors into Masvingo, creating more business for hotels, restaurants, transport operators and shops.
Speaking at the awards, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Hon. Barbara Rwodzi said "taking big events to towns like Masvingo shows how sports tourism can spread visitors beyond major cities,it helps showcase local heritage and gives communities real business opportunities."
Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Lt Gen (Rtd) Hon. Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe also said sport is no longer just about competition. It is now an industry that can drive tourism and economic development."
Following its success, organizers confirmed the carnival will return to Masvingo annually to build the city’s brand around sport, heritage and leisure.
The carnival now sets the stage for the Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo from 9–12 September in Masvingo. Together, the two events link sport, culture, food and business to position Destination Zimbabwe as diverse and exciting.
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Zimbabwe Olympic Committee Sports and Recreation Commission Zimbabwe Netball Nexus Zimbabwe Zimbabwe Tourism Authority