Matabeleland South’s sports tourism goals received a significant boost over the weekend as Pelandaba Stadium hosted the Gwanda Mayor’s Annual Boxing Tournament — an event officials say is positioning the province as a rising sport-driven destination.
Held under the theme “Knock Out Drugs, Knock Out Litter,” the tournament drew visitors from across the region and showcased the province’s growing ability to host competitive sporting events that spur tourism and related services.
Related Stories
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, the event demonstrated the strategic role of sport in destination marketing. In its statement, the Ministry said the tournament “positioned the province as a growing sports-driven destination,” highlighting how such events enhance visibility and attract visitors.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Tongai Mnangagwa officiated at the tournament, reaffirming government support for the sports tourism cluster that continues to expand in Matabeleland South.
Local leadership has played a key role in this momentum. With Mayor Thulani Moyo championing sports tourism and schools participating actively in the programme, authorities say Gwanda is steadily developing into a vibrant sporting hub.
The Ministry added that the strong turnout showed the community’s commitment to using sport both as a tool for youth development and as an economic driver feeding into Zimbabwe’s wider tourism value chain.
Leave Comments