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The highly anticipated SADC Tourism Night, hosted by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, brought a vibrant display of culture and diplomacy to life on Thursday evening at the Heritage Cultural Village, Museum of African Liberation.
The event, held on 15 August 2024, attracted a host of dignitaries from across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, underscoring its significance in promoting regional tourism. Led by Tourism Minister Barbara Rwodzi, the event boasted a distinguished delegation that included Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Dr. Frederick Shava.
Minister Rwodzi emphasized the multifaceted importance of the SADC Tourism Night.
“The SADC tourism night is not just a vibrant celebration of our rich diverse cultural heritage but also a powerful platform for fostering regional unity and promoting the tourism industry,” Minister Rwodzi remarked.
Minister Rwodzi underscored the event’s potential to strengthen the bonds between SADC member states, noting that cultural diplomacy plays a crucial role in building lasting relationships that transcend borders.
“Zimbabwe is proud to host such an event that brings together our SADC family and international partners, this gathering is a testament to our shared values and aspirations, and it provides a unique opportunity to showcase the best of our region to the world, thereby enhancing our collective appeal as a prime tourist destination,” she said.
She further elaborated on the broader economic implications, explaining that events like the SADC Tourism Night serve as a vital platform for tourism stakeholders to network, exchange ideas, and forge partnerships that could lead to increased investment and growth within the sector.
“By hosting this event, we are not only celebrating our cultural identity but also opening doors to new opportunities that will benefit our economies and uplift our communities,” Minister Rwodzi added.
Deputy Ambassador Cheng Yan of China reflected on the significance of the evening.
“It’s a pleasure to witness the fusion of cultures and the unity it brings. Tonight, we are reminded that despite our differences, there is more that unites us than divides us,” Yan said.
Adding to the sentiment, Dr. Tamer Almassri, Palestine’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, emphasized the role of cultural exchanges in promoting peace and solidarity.
“In a world often divided by differences, nights like these remind us of the beauty in diversity and the strength we gain from our shared human experiences, the celebration of culture goes beyond mere entertainment; it’s a powerful tool for fostering mutual respect and understanding between nations,” Dr Almassri expressed.
The diplomatic community was well-represented, with ambassadors and senior officials from Palestine, Venezuela, the European Union, and China attending the event. Among the esteemed guests were Dr. Tamer Almassri, Palestine’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Magaly Henríquez González of Venezuela, Emile Mabita from the EU delegation, and Deputy Ambassador Cheng Yan of China.
The evening’s entertainment did not disappoint, with performances that captivated the audience, with Zimdancehall sensation Killer T, music maestro Andy Muridzo, and Afro-Jazz diva Diana Samkange taking the stage.
Moreover, with the SADC Summit on the horizon, the event served as a fitting prelude, setting a tone of collaboration and shared vision for the future. As leaders prepare to discuss critical issues affecting the region, the spirit of unity and mutual respect fostered during the Tourism Night promises to carry forward, influencing the decisions and partnerships that will shape the region’s path ahead.