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Leonard Ncubeleonard.ncube@chronicle.co.zw
ELEVEN-YEAR-OLD Ugandan Pan-Africanist, Emmanuel Akot, has finally fulfilled his dream of witnessing the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. His week-long visit to Zimbabwe, which began last Saturday, has drawn significant regional and international attention, aligning with the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry’s efforts to showcase the country’s rich tourism assets.
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has hailed Emmanuel’s visit as a major endorsement of the country’s appeal as a warm and welcoming destination, fostering cultural connections and promoting unity across Africa.
During his time in Harare, Emmanuel was hosted by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry and the ZTA, visiting key attractions like Great Zimbabwe and Pricabe Farm in Kwekwe, where he met President Mnangagwa.
He is being accompanied on his tour by Tourism and Hospitality Industry Deputy Minister, Tongai Mnangagwa.
Upon landing at Victoria Falls International Airport from Harare, Emmanuel was taken to his hotel before embarking on an exciting itinerary which includes exploring the Victoria Falls Rainforest, a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, and the renowned Boma Dinner and Drum Show.
Victoria Falls remains Zimbabwe’s top tourist destination, and Emmanuel’s visit is expected to bring added exposure to the city, especially given his significant online following.Emmanuel, who had long dreamed of visiting the majestic falls, displayed a remarkable understanding of the destination.“It’s nice being in Zimbabwe, and I feel so loved here.
The infrastructure is amazing, and I finally get to see one of the Wonders of the World,” Emmanuel exclaimed. “I have always dreamt of visiting Victoria Falls. By the way, did you know that Victoria Falls is a sign of unity? It acts as a natural border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, and you can see that God was trying to unite the two countries. It is one of the Wonders of the World, just like the Nile,” he said, beaming with excitement.
Deputy Minister Mnangagwa emphasised the importance of Emmanuel’s visit in showcasing Zimbabwe’s rich heritage and tourism potential. “We are here in Victoria Falls, having just come from Great Zimbabwe in Masvingo.
The essence of this trip, where we have His Excellency, the President of the United States of Africa, visiting Zimbabwe, is to inspire young people to experience and appreciate what the country has to offer. Emmanuel will take this message back to the world,” he said.
The visit is also seen as an opportunity to celebrate local culture and strengthen tourism partnerships. Deputy Minister Mnangagwa said the visit is an opportunity to celebrate the local culture and strengthen tourism partnerships.“We have taken Emmanuel to various places, and Victoria Falls is the final stop. This visit will help boost tourist arrivals, as he will serve as an ambassador for Zimbabwe’s tourism,” he said.
Zimbabwe and Uganda are connected through a direct flight between Harare and Entebbe, and this is expected to enhance tourism traffic between the two countries.
