Fastjet, ZTA promote Bulawayo as premier MICE destination
FASTJET, in partnership with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), is spearheading efforts to position Bulawayo as a key destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).
The collaboration seeks to harness Bulawayo’s untapped potential in business tourism and expand its visibility in regional markets.
Fastjet and ZTA have been working closely with South African travel agents to promote Bulawayo as a vibrant MICE hub. So far, four groups of travel agents from South Africa have toured the city, exploring its facilities and attractions to develop tailored travel packages.
ZTA regional manager, Mrs Novuyo Mathonsi emphasised the significance of these efforts, saying there is a need to showcase Bulawayo’s conference and tourism capabilities to corporate clients.
“Most people are unaware of what Bulawayo offers in terms of meetings and conferencing facilities. The South African market, particularly corporate travel agents, must experience our products first-hand to promote them effectively,” she said.
“We have three three-star hotels and the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC) with large halls suitable for conferences, proving our capacity to host MICE events.”
The strategy includes integrating business events with leisure tourism by encouraging visitors to explore local attractions such as Matopo National Park.
“When people come for meetings, they don’t just stay in conference rooms. They visit tourist attractions like the Matopos, which offers not just breathtaking scenery but also upmarket accommodation facilities that visitors truly appreciate,” said Mrs Mathonsi.
She said this partnership between Fastjet and ZTA marks a step forward in transforming Bulawayo into a competitive MICE destination.
Mrs Mathonsi said by leveraging its facilities, cultural richness, and natural attractions, the city could attract more regional and international visitors, boosting the local economy and enhancing Zimbabwe’s profile as a MICE hub.
Following site visits, South African travel agents expressed their amazement at Bulawayo’s offerings. Rennies BCD Travel agency, programme manager Ms Delene Hiepner, praised the city’s tourism and hospitality.
“I must be honest, it has been incredible. I did not expect this from Zimbabwe. The tourist sites have been fantastic, and, sadly, many people are unaware of them. Bulawayo deserves recognition beyond the usual focus on Victoria Falls,” she said.
Ms Saffiyah Rahman, another South African travel professional, lauded Bulawayo’s hospitality and cultural experiences.
“The people are friendly, and the warm welcome is something our clients would love. One day here is not enough, and we will definitely create tailor-made packages for our clients,” she said, adding that Bulawayo has the potential to host regional MICE events.-chrocile
