Mbulelo Mpofu
THE rhythmic sounds of Insimbi ZeZhwane echoed through the pavements of Bulawayo’s central business district, a soundtrack seemingly frozen in time. Standing captivated before it all was Efya Kimora, the effervescent Ghanaian travel content creator. Known to her thousands of YouTube followers for her infectious enthusiasm and a keen eye for Africa’s hidden gems, she was utterly transfixed.
Her camera panned slowly across the city streets, capturing snippets of daily life on her way to the Bulawayo Railway Museum. There, majestic and weathered engines — giants of steel that once powered a nation — stood in stoic silence. This moment, steeped in industrial heritage, was just one thread in her recent odyssey through Zimbabwe, a journey that perfectly preceded the nation’s proud Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo.
Zimbabwe, a land whispered about in travel circles for its raw beauty and complex history, is actively reclaiming its narrative as a premier destination. Nowhere was this more evident than in the eastern city of Mutare, which for the very first time was hosting the prestigious 18th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo. Thousands of delegates, investors, and international buyers descended upon Manicaland, buzzing under the apt theme, “Devolving Sustainable Tourism Development – Our Future.”
While global players networked in Mutare, the authentic pulse of Zimbabwean tourism was beating strongly elsewhere, captured through the lens of creators like Kimora. Venturing beyond the expo spotlight, Kimora immersed herself in the lived experience, embodying the essence of the country’s booming tourism. Her adventure began in Harare, a city balancing modern energy with deep-rooted history, before she embarked on the quintessential Zimbabwean overland experience: the journey south to Bulawayo.
This road trip, Kimora would later recount, offered its own form of initiation. Opting for the local experience, she navigated the famed “chicken buses.” This unfiltered glimpse into local transport, though challenging, underscored her commitment to experiencing Zimbabwe beyond the polished brochures. Arriving in Bulawayo, the “City of Kings,” she quickly found her rhythm. The wide, tree-lined avenues and slower pace offered a distinct contrast to Harare. Her exploration was a masterclass in the city’s layered identity. She stood in quiet reverence before the imposing statue of the late Vice-President Joshua qabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, a monument radiating the gravitas of “Father Zimbabwe.” The Tredgold Building, a stunning example of colonial architecture, drew her eye, prompting a dive into its historical significance as a courthouse.
But it was the National Railway Museum that truly ignited her fascination.
“The people here are friendly and loving, that’s why I even took photos with congregants at church on my way to the railway museum,” she said.
Wandering among the meticulously preserved steam engines and carriages, Kimora transformed from observer to engaged student, finding a tangible connection to the nation’s industrial past.
Seeking respite and natural beauty, Kimora found sanctuary at the Hillside Dams Conservancy. Here, she traded historical exploration for tranquil immersion. Whether spotting birdlife or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the conservancy provided a vital counterpoint to the urban explorations. Her journey through the country also offered a quintessential cultural experience: tasting isitshwala (sadza). “After the bus ride, this was pure comfort!” She remarked.
Her enjoyment of this staple dish, a simple yet profound element of daily life, resonated deeply with her audience.
Her journey painted a powerful, authentic snapshot of Zimbabwean tourism beyond the conference halls of Mutare. Her experiences — from the awe-inspiring monuments and world-class museums to the bumpy bus rides and the soul-nourishing comfort of local cuisine — showed a destination rich in texture, history, and genuine warmth. She presented her challenges not as deterrents, but as part of the authentic adventure that discerning travellers often seek alongside iconic sights.
From the thunderous Victoria Falls to the mystical ruins of Great Zimbabwe, and from the wildlife havens of Hwange to the misty mountains of the Eastern Highlands, Zimbabwe is home to a staggering array of attractions. With the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Expo charting a course for the nation’s sustainable tourism future, Kimora’s personal odyssey speaks to the product already on offer. Her journey highlighted the resilience, heritage, natural beauty, and profound hospitality that form the bedrock of the Zimbabwean experience. She didn’t just visit attractions; she connected with the spirit of the place. Her Zimbabwean chapter wasn’t just travel content; it was an invitation, echoing the official welcome from Mutare: Zimbabwe, in all its complex, captivating beauty, is ready to share its soul.
The post Beyond the brochure: Exploring Zimbabwe’s soul with Efya Kimora appeared first on herald.
The post Beyond the brochure: Exploring Zimbabwe’s soul with Efya Kimora appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.