MUTOKO’S CHIHERA LEISURE CENTRE LAUNCHES AS RURAL TOURISM HUB

The rural landscape of Mutoko, under the jurisdiction of Chief Charehwa, has been dramatically transformed with the recent opening of the Chihera Leisure Centre. This impressive new tourism development marks a significant investment by Choice Kanyongo, a Zimbabwean entrepreneur based in the Diaspora, who has channelled resources back to her rural home, creating a vibrant economic and social hub.

The project stands as a shining example of the Government’s focus on the Rural Tourism Cluster, showcasing its immense potential to stimulate local economies and advance national development priorities under Vision 2030. By attracting private capital into previously underdeveloped areas, Diaspora-led projects like Chihera Leisure Centre are transforming rural areas into competitive tourism destinations that offer enhanced visitor experiences while preserving local cultural heritage.

The facility is a powerful demonstration of how strategic Diaspora investment can elevate Rural Tourism and strengthen Zimbabwe’s growing global tourism profile. This profile was recently affirmed by Forbes Magazine, which named Zimbabwe the World’s Number One Destination for 2025. Such investments validate the international confidence in Zimbabwe’s tourism sector and its capacity for high-quality development.

Choice Kanyongo’s commitment is a model for fellow Zimbabweans abroad, encouraging them to reinvest back home through similar sustainable tourism ventures. By establishing modern, high-standard amenities, these projects ensure that tourism’s benefits are distributed widely, extending beyond traditional urban and wildlife safari zones.

The Chihera Leisure Centre is far more than just a local attraction; it is a multi-functional complex designed to meet diverse community and tourist needs. The facility currently features a fully stocked bar, a popular sunken braai area, and a refreshing swimming pool. Crucially, it includes a modern conference facility, positioning it to host corporate events and workshops, further diversifying the local economic base. The centre also operates a butchery, providing direct market access for local livestock producers.

Future expansion plans include the construction of 20 guest rooms, which will allow the centre to provide full accommodation services, cementing its role as a key overnight stop and destination within the Mutoko district. The Chihera Leisure Centre embodies the vision of local economic empowerment, turning the concept of rural tourism into a profitable reality and ensuring local communities are direct beneficiaries of the national economic transformation agenda.