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Nesia Mhaka Herald Reporter
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) is on a drive to promote township tourism and Harare’s oldest suburb, Mbare, is among prime targets of the programme.

Township tourism has emerged as the fastest growing tourist activity in Africa with many old suburbs on the continent, like Soweto in South Africa, attracting international visitors.

Speaking at a tourism technical stakeholder workshop in Mbare on Thursday, ZTA chief operations officer Mr Givemore Chidzidzi highlighted that township tourism was unique to Africa as tourists from the developed world are seeking urban spaces with a rich human history that is rarely found in other continents.

He said, if managed well, township tourism can bring results and promote sustainable development in marginalised areas.

“In our hub we have Mbare township here in Harare, a place which is rich with history and full of life that any visitor to the country would love to experience.

“I cannot overemphasise on other towns around the country. It is high time we tap into this market. It is therefore increasingly important that we maximise on that,” he said.

He said the country has to adopt the concept of township tourism and realise benefits that will grow the economy.

“Townships are the nerve of urban life. It has been noticed that tourists are shifting from the usual activities and focusing on townships with a rich history.

“In fact, township tourism is fast emerging as the most sought after by visitors in Africa. The culture of uniting families should start with us and Mbare is one place that will foster such initiatives.

Speaking at the same event, chief curator of the National Gallery of Zimbabwe Mr Raphael Chikukwa said all ZTA stakeholders must work together to achieve the goal.

“There are many places that should tell the story of the liberation struggle, but now reflect disillusionment. This Stodart Hall is just a drop in the pool of Mbare’s monumental features, which include the Pioneer Cemetery, Mai Musodzi Hall and the domineering Rufaro Stadium.

“In other countries, such historical community centres attract huge township tourism and Zimbabwe could take a leaf and benefit, too,” he said.

Mr Bisolomu Chamunorwa from Mbare Chinembiri metal crafts complained that the infrastructure around the complex continues to decline with little attention.

“The authorities have not accorded this place the right care especially Mbare Musika, Stodart Hall and Mai Musodzi Hall among other places of historical importance,” he said.