Masvingo, Zimbabwe – The country’s flagship tourism trade fair, the Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbabwe expo, ended on a high today, setting a new benchmark for the sector with a record number of participants.

Event organisers confirmed that 405 exhibitors and 153 international and local buyers took part in this year’s edition, making it the biggest expo since its inception. The event, held in the ancient city of Masvingo, brought together key players from the tourism and hospitality industry to network, showcase products, and forge new business partnerships.

The expo provided a platform for Zimbabwean tourism operators to meet with buyers from key source markets, including regional and international delegates. Participants expressed optimism that the increased attendance would translate into real business deals and a boost to tourist arrivals in the coming months.

Tourism remains one of Zimbabwe’s strategic economic pillars, and events like Sanganai/Hlanganani are seen as vital for marketing the country as a premier destination. This year’s record turnout underscores renewed confidence in the sector and efforts to rebuild it to its former glory.

The expo’s success is also expected to stimulate infrastructure development and job creation in the tourism value chain, from accommodation and transport to local crafts and cuisine.

With the 2026 edition now concluded, stakeholders are already looking ahead to next year, with calls to expand the event further and attract even more international buyers.