Hotels, Lodges fully booked ahead of ZITF

As the excitement builds for the upcoming 64th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo from 23 to 27 April, the city’s major hotels and lodges are buzzing with activity as they are now fully booked for the event. The theme for this year’s ZITF is “Entrepreneurship: The Catalyst for Industrialisation and Trade,” promising a dynamic showcase of business opportunities and networking.

A recent meeting between key government officials, industry representatives, and hospitality stakeholders highlighted the importance of addressing accommodation availability during the ZITF. The demand for lodging has been so high that establishments like Banff Lodge Hotel, N1 Hotel Bulawayo, Wozani Lodge, and Motsamai Guest Lodge are already at full capacity, with bookings pouring in from a diverse mix of guests including locals, government officials, foreign diplomats, and corporate clients.

Notably, Banff Lodge Hotel stood out for maintaining their regular rates for the ZITF period, in contrast to some establishments that tend to increase prices during peak times. This commitment to fair pricing has garnered them early bookings and positive feedback from guests. Similarly, N1 Hotel Bulawayo has seen a surge in reservations from local companies booking for their employees, showcasing the strong support from the business community for this premier trade event.

The proximity of Wozani Lodge and Motsamai Guest Lodge to the ZITF exhibition grounds has made them sought-after choices for attendees looking for convenient accommodation options. Despite the high demand, these establishments have strived to offer quality services and ensure a seamless experience for their guests.

The challenge of finding last-minute accommodation during the ZITF week underscores the importance of early planning and preparation. Government authorities and tourism players are actively collaborating to find both short and long-term solutions to address accommodation challenges in Bulawayo during major events like the ZITF.

In line with these efforts, the Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ) continues to emphasize the need for tourism players to be proactive in their preparations and deliver exceptional services to meet the expectations of their clientele. By maintaining high standards and offering a welcoming environment for visitors, the hospitality sector in Bulawayo is poised to make a lasting impression during the bustling ZITF period.

Text: Natasha Munyukwa