Tendai Keith Guvamombe
The Eastern Highlands has firmly established itself as one of Zimbabwe’s premier adventure and Sports Tourism destinations, a status significantly boosted by the successful staging of the NetOne Albun Honde Valley Marathon.
Following an invitation from NetOne and Albun Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Alois Bunjira—a former international footballer and son of Mutasa Honde Valley—the event drew a massive turnout, underscoring its growing national importance.
Record Participation and High-Level Endorsement
Officiating at the marathon, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, applauded the impressive participation of over 1,800 athletes. The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the marathon annually, a clear sign of the event’s rising stature in the national calendar.
The marathon’s success arrives amid a wave of global recognition for Zimbabwean tourism:
- Global Milestones: Minister Rwodzi highlighted the sector’s exceptional growth in 2024.
- Gastronomy Tourism: Zimbabwe earned International Recognition for its Gastronomy Tourism through UN Tourism, an initiative championed by the Patron of Tourism, Her Excellency the First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa.
- Viral Endorsement: Global awareness has been significantly enhanced by Jeremy Clarkson’s viral, 17-million-view Top Gear feature, where he described Zimbabwe, and particularly Honde Valley, as “the most beautiful country on earth.”
- Forbes’ No. 1 Destination: These endorsements collectively contributed to Zimbabwe being named Forbes’ Number One Destination for 2025, making events like the marathon vital in sustaining this global attention.
Sports Tourism: A Catalyst for Rural Development
Guided by the Whole-of-Government Approach and President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, the Ministry of Tourism continues to champion Sports Tourism as a key strategy for Rural Development, Economic Inclusion, and Community Empowerment.
The marathon was not just a sporting spectacle; it was a showcase of Honde Valley’s breathtaking landscapes and a direct driver of local development. Initiatives supported by the event include:- Expanding Accommodation options in the area
- Promoting Rural Tourism in Hauna.
These efforts ensure that local communities directly benefit from the increasing tourist arrivals, fulfilling the mandate of inclusive growth.
The strong national support for the event was evidenced by the attendance of key dignitaries, including the Minister of Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Advocate Misheck Mugadza, NetOne Management and Board, Albun leadership, Chief Mutasa, and other Senior Government Officials.
The NetOne Albun Honde Valley Marathon has successfully transitioned from a mere race to a signature national event, demonstrating the powerful synergy between sport, tourism, and inclusive economic development in Zimbabwe’s majestic Eastern Highlands.
Would you like me to draft a social media post based on this article, or perhaps summarize the key quotes from Minister Rwodzi?
