Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit Fundraising Golf Day to be Held on World Tourism Day

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Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit Fundraising Golf Day to be Held on World Tourism Day

The Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU) will host its annual Fundraising Golf Day on 27 September at the prestigious Borrowdale Brooke Golf Course in Harare. This year’s event coincides with World Tourism Day, making it a significant occasion for conservation and tourism alike. The golf day will see 128 players competing in support of VFAPU’s ongoing efforts to combat poaching and preserve wildlife in the Victoria Falls region.

This year’s event holds particular importance as it comes just a few months before Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, the flagship property of Africa Albida Tourism (AAT) and a founding partner of VFAPU, celebrates its 30th anniversary on 14 December. Additionally, 2024 marks a key milestone for VFAPU, as it will be 25 years since the unit was formed in 1999 by Victoria Falls Safari Lodge and local conservationist Charles Brightman. Over the past quarter-century, VFAPU has played a critical role in the protection of wildlife in the region, making this golf day a crucial fundraiser for the unit’s continued operations.

Ross Kennedy, director of AAT and a Wildlife Conservation Coalition (WCC) board member, emphasised the importance of this event, saying, “This fundraising golf day not only highlights the ongoing battle against poaching but also showcases the synergy between tourism and conservation. As we approach the 30th anniversary of Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, it’s important to remember that our commitment to protecting our wildlife remains stronger than ever. The support we receive through initiatives like this allows VFAPU to continue its essential work on the ground.”

Nathan Webb, General Manager of WCC, which was formed following the merger of VFAPU and The Bhejane Trust in 2023, added, “The Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit has made significant strides in protecting our wildlife, but the fight is far from over. Events like this golf day are crucial for raising the funds needed to sustain our efforts and ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of the Victoria Falls region.”

The fundraising golf day which offers golf enthusiasts the opportunity to help conserve Zimbabwe’s wildlife through their participation, sponsorship and donations, promises to be a memorable event, with participants not only enjoying a day of golf but also contributing to a cause that is vital to the preservation of Zimbabwe’s natural heritage. The event will include lunch, drinks and evening snacks as well as a host of incredible prizes.  All proceeds from the fundraiser go directly to VFAPU, with Africa Albida Tourism bearing all the administrative costs of the day.

Since its inception VFAPU has arrested over 1,030 hardened poachers, removed over 39,000 wire snares and rescued and treated over 600 mammals injured in snares.

VFAPU works closely with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, the Zimbabwe Republic Police and Victoria Falls City Council and has 15 scouts patrolling daily.   The unit relies solely on donations to fund its operations.

For more information on how to participate in this fundraising golf day or contribute to the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit, please contact Judy on [email protected] or telephone +263 242 885200.

Media release by Africa Albida Tourism  

11 September 2024 

AFRICA ALBIDA TOURISM T: +263 (242)885200 E: [email protected]

W: www.africaalbidatourism.com / www.victoria-falls-safari-lodge.com

Air Botswana’s Access project takes flight

Aero Insights
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Air Botswana’s Access project takes flight

Botswana has marked a significant step forward in stimulating air access to the region with the launch of an official air access strategy incorporating key members of the tourism, aviation and trade sectors.

Hoping to build on the model of similar successful initiatives such as Cape Town Air Access, the Air Botswana Access objective is to attract, retain and expand air connectivity to Botswana. The project was officially launched on August 22 in Gaborone at the same time as national carrier Air Botswana embarks on significant route expansions.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) is spearheading the initiative in partnership with the Botswana Tourism Organisation, the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre, Business Botswana, Travel Agent’s Association of Botswana and the Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana. These organisations will assist in advisory roles and strategic engagements with domestic, regional and international carriers.

“The project will have positive effects on tourism, investment and trade as it is a collaborative national destination initiative driven by its objective to improve ease of international air access to Botswana,” said CAAB CEO Bao Masinyi.

Earlier this year, project stakeholders attended the AviaDev conference in Namibia to begin engagements with regional and international carrier representatives. A team will seek to continue engaging carriers at the largest air services development platform in the world, Routes World, in Bahrain in early October.

Hideaways Africa Welcomes Mhara River Camp in Mana Pools to Its Exclusive Portfolio

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Hideaways Africa Welcomes Mhara River Camp in Mana Pools to Its Exclusive Portfolio

Hideaways Africa is thrilled to announce the newest addition to its portfolio, Hideaways Mhara River Camp, located in Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe. Officially joining the Hideaways family on August 20th, this exceptional camp offers an unparalleled wilderness experience on a remote, private, and previously unexplored concession.

About the camp

Located in Mana Pools National Park, Hideaways Mhara River Camp is the epitome of untouched wilderness. The camp’s remoteness ensures guests experience the true essence of Africa, far from the beaten track. With top leopard sightings, diverse landscapes including mopane woodlands, dry riverbeds, gorges, and baobab forests, this camp promises a unique safari escape.

Hideaways Mhara River Camp offers more than just a stay; it provides extraordinary wildlife and birding experiences. The camp is renowned for its unique walking safaris including an existing walk in the Chitake Gorge, allowing guests to get up close with nature and observe wildlife, fauna and flora in their natural habitat. Birding enthusiasts will be delighted with the opportunity to spot the rare and elusive African Pitta among other diverse bird species.

“It is the wilderness. Many people talk about wilderness in brochures and those kinds of things, and most of the time they are not what we believe a wilderness is. A wilderness is just a few people, the animals that live there, no masses of roads or vehicles. It’s pristine. And that’s exactly what Mhara River Camp is,” says Derek Hinde, Director of Mhara.

Exceptional Safari Experiences

Hideaways Mhara River Camp offers an array of within Mana Pools:

  1. Birding: The camp is a birding paradise, home to over 400 species, including the Africa Pitta. Guided birding walks provide opportunities to spot and appreciate a diverse array of birdlife.
  2. Bush Walks: Walking safaris led by expert guides offer guests the chance to experience the wild on foot. Travelers can closely observe wildlife, and learn about local flora and fauna. Notable walks include exploring the Chitake Gorge, walking along the Chitake and Mhara Rivers, and the Baobab Walk through a baobab forest.
  3. Bush Dinners and Sundowners: Guests can enjoy dining experiences under the stars. Bush dinners present local cuisine in a breathtaking setting, while sundowners offer a relaxing way to end the day with a drink as the sun sets over the horizon.
  4. Game Drives and Night Drives: Game drives provide the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes and search for wildlife. Night drives offer guests a chance to spot nocturnal animals of Mana Pools National Park

Join Us at Hideaways Mhara River Camp

As Hideaways Mhara River Camp joins the Hideaways family, we invite guests to experience the raw beauty of this untouched gem in Mana Pools National Park. From the seasoned safari-goer to a first-time visitor, the camp offers a serene retreat where nature truly comes to you.

Contact Information
For reservations and more information, please contact:
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.hideawaysafrica.com

Ilala Lodge Hotel Main Pool Reopens

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Ilala Lodge Hotel Main Pool Reopens

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – Ilala Lodge Hotel is delighted to announce the successful completion of maintenance work on its main swimming pool. The pool officially reopened to guests on Tuesday, August 6th.

The hotel would like to express its sincere gratitude to guests for their understanding and patience during the pool closure. We appreciate your cooperation in utilizing the smaller pool on-site or the facilities at our sister property, The Palm River Hotel, during this time.

”We invite all guests to enjoy the refreshed main pool and look forward to providing you with an exceptional experience at Ilala Lodge Hotel.” reported Ilala Lodge Hotel newsletter.

About Ilala Lodge Hotel

Ilala Lodge Hotel is ideally located only 8 minutes away from the spectacular Victoria Falls. A family run hotel, Ilala Lodge has 73 stylish, well-appointed spacious rooms, that offer the ultimate in comfort and luxury. As the closest hotel to the beautiful Victoria Falls, the spray makes for a perfect backdrop during your stay.

Media Contact:

[email protected]
 +263 83 2844737/8/9
 +263 83 2842650
 +263  712 401 814

Nehimba Lodge Unveils Stunning New Look and Thriving Wildlife Sanctuary

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Nehimba Lodge Unveils Stunning New Look and Thriving Wildlife Sanctuary

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe – Nehimba Lodge, a beloved retreat nestled in the heart of Hwange National Park, is delighted to announce a complete transformation. The lodge has undergone a stylish refurbishment, boasting new furnishings, décor, and amenities that create a fresh and inviting atmosphere.

Guests can now relax in comfort on stylish Morris chairs on their private verandas, while enjoying the breathtaking views of the waterhole. The addition of walk-in mosquito nets with fans ensures a peaceful night’s sleep during the warmer months. Other enhancements include new mini bar fridges for added convenience.

In addition to the lodge’s stunning makeover, Nehimba is experiencing an exceptional wildlife season. A timely cloudburst has revitalized the surrounding vegetation, creating a lush oasis that is attracting an abundance of wildlife. The lodge’s concession has also invested in three newly drilled boreholes, guaranteeing a reliable water supply throughout the dry season.

Nehimba Lodge 2

“We are thrilled to unveil the new Nehimba Lodge and share this incredible wildlife experience with our guests,” reported the Nehimba Lodge social media page. “Our commitment to providing exceptional hospitality and preserving the natural beauty of Hwange remains unwavering.”

For more information or to book your stay at Nehimba Lodge, please visit imvelosafarilodges.com/nehimba-lodge or contact +263 783 568 632.

About Nehimba Lodge:

Nehimba Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe. Offering unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities and exceptional hospitality, Nehimba Lodge is the perfect destination for discerning travellers seeking an authentic African adventure.

Air Zimbabwe Resumes Flights Between HRE And JNB

Aero Insights
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Air Zimbabwe Resumes Flights Between HRE And JNB

From 29 July, passengers can once again fly with Air Zimbabwe from Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. This move supports Zimbabwe’s Open Skies and Open for Business policies. According to Air Zimbabwe website, there will be four weekly flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The tickets start from US$160 one-way and $250 return.

New Academies in Collaboration with UN Tourism Planned for Zambia and Zimbabwe

Tourism Growth Watch
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New Academies in Collaboration with UN Tourism Planned for Zambia and Zimbabwe

With African tourism experiencing significant growth, there is now an urgent need to train a wide range of skilled professionals, all equipped with the skills modern tourism businesses need. Reflecting this demand, UN Tourism has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Tourism of Zambia to establish the ZITHS Mukuni International Academy for Tourism and Hospitality in collaboration with UN Tourism. The Academy will offer a range of courses, all focused on equipping students both new to the sector and establish tourism workers the skills they need to find work or advance in their careers.

Laying the foundation stone in Livingstone, Secretary-General Pololikashvili said: “Africa’s tourism sector is growing and diversifying at a tremendous rate. These new Academies in Collaboration with UN Tourism will help train the tourism workers of tomorrow in a range of specialisms, giving African tourism the talent it needs to thrive.” 

Joining the Secretary-General in signing the agreement, the Minister of Tourism of Zambia, Rodney M. Sikumba, said: “ through the adoption of the UN Tourism Education Guidelines, Zambia has been able to reposition the role of education in tourism development. The establishment of the Academy is a game changer of how we will bridge the evident skills gap for the existing and future workforce of our tourism sector.” 

Culinary Arts Academy planned for Zimbabwe  

UN Tourism has also agreed to establish the Africa International Tourism Academy for Culinary Arts in collaboration with UN Tourism. The specialist centre will be hosted in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and focus on training skilled professionals in culinary arts both within the country and right across Africa. The announcement coincides with the celebration of the first UN Tourism Gastronomy Tourism Forum for Africa, an event showcasing the region’s diverse gastronomy and set to bring together leading players from the public and private sectors.

Zimbabwe’s Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi said: “We are excited to be working closely with UN Tourism to grow gastronomy tourism in our country and across the wider region. The new Academy in Collaboration with UN Tourism signals our shared commitment to empowering tourism workers within the field of culinary arts, putting Zimbabwe firmly on the global gastronomy map.”

Global Travel Chaos as IT Systems Crash

Business News
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Global Travel Chaos as IT Systems Crash

A massive IT outage has brought widespread disruption to global travel, banking, and retail on [19 July]. Major airlines including American, Delta, and United have grounded flights due to communication issues. Airports worldwide, including Heathrow and Gatwick, are experiencing delays and cancellations. The problem appears linked to a Microsoft technical issue, affecting systems used by airlines, banks, and businesses globally. Train services in the UK have also been impacted.

Uganda Airlines expand routes to West and Southern Africa

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Uganda Airlines expand routes to West and Southern Africa

Uganda Airlines has announced plans to launch new flights to Nigeria, Zambia, and Zimbabwe starting September 2024. This expansion marks the second phase of the airline’s network development strategy.

Flights to Abuja, Nigeria, will commence on September 12, operating twice weekly with an A330-800 aircraft. This complements existing services to Lagos. From September 25, the airline will introduce four weekly flights to Lusaka, Zambia, and Harare, Zimbabwe, using CRJ-900 aircraft.

CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki emphasised that these additions will enhance connectivity across Africa, facilitating business, trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges. The expansion is part of Uganda Airlines’ 10-year plan to connect East, West, North, and South Africa.

The new routes join the airline’s existing destinations, including Nairobi, Johannesburg, Dubai, and Mumbai. As Uganda Airlines approaches its fifth anniversary in August 2024, this expansion aims to improve aircraft utilisation, create a robust network supporting long-haul routes, and position the airline for future profitability.

Zimbabwe Targets Tourism Growth with New Fund

Tourism Growth Watch
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Zimbabwe Targets Tourism Growth with New Fund

Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry is seeking to establish the Zimbabwe Tourism Fund (ZTF) as a stand alone entity, in a bid to bolster management, good governance and accountability.

Currently run by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, the ZTF is funded by a 2% revenue levy from operators in the tourism and hospitality sector.

Speaking at a Tourism Amendment Bill workshop in Harare recently, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Barbara Rwodzi said that a stand alone ZTF would help to promote effective and accountable use of funding for tourism projects.

“ZTF is supposed to be an entity on its own, with its own management to ensure good governance, transparency and accountability. We want the fund to be directed more at promotions and development of the local tourism sector, at sprucing up derelict tourism facilities and helping start-ups which require capital,” said Rwodzi.

The fund had previously funded the construction of Rainbow Towers, a 304-bedroomed hotel in Harare which opened initially as a Sheraton property in 1985.

Rwodzi said that a refreshed ZTF could stimulate further major projects and help the country to reach its target of building a US$5 billion tourism industry by 2025.

In 2023, the industry reached $1.1bn in revenue, just short of the $1.2bn recorded in 2019.

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