By Kudakwashe Kutinyo
The government, through the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, has unveiled plans to construct a cultural centre in Nkayi, Matabeleland North Province, as part of ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The cultural centre will be established near Chief Dakamela’s homestead and is intended to serve as a hub for showcasing local traditions through exhibitions, performances, workshops, and events. This initiative aims to foster community engagement, education, and cultural exchange while boosting tourism in the region.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi outlined the government’s vision to expand tourist destinations in Matabeleland North. During the announcement, she emphasised the importance of heritage-based tourism in attracting international visitors.
“We want tourists to enjoy Nkayi’s unique scenery. That is why we are planning to build a cultural centre here—to provide a platform for showcasing our traditions to international visitors,” said Minister Rwodzi.
“Children in schools are being taught heritage-based education to preserve culture. Our tourism strategy is rooted in heritage so that visitors can experience our rich traditions alongside iconic destinations like Victoria Falls, Great Zimbabwe, and the Eastern Highlands.”
The ministry also identified Nkayi and Binga as priority areas for cultural development due to their unique traditions and heritage. This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to its “leaving no place and no one behind” mantra, which seeks to ensure inclusive development across all regions.
Zimbabwe is home to several renowned cultural centres that celebrate its diverse heritage, including the National Handicraft Development and Marketing Centre, Chitungwiza Arts Centre, Pasichigare Cultural Centre, Matobo Hills Cultural Centre, and Chapungu Sculpture Park. These centres showcase traditional crafts, art, music, dance, and historical artefacts, providing vital platforms for cultural exchange and education.
The planned Nkayi Cultural Centre is expected to enhance this list of trailblasing sites by offering visitors an immersive experience into local customs, while also contributing to community development through tourism.
The centre will not only serve as a tourist attraction but also as a space for locals to engage with their cultural heritage, promoting pride and identity within the community.
As plans progress, local stakeholders and community members are encouraged to participate in the development process, ensuring that the cultural centre truly reflects the rich history and traditions of Nkayi.
The government anticipates that the centre will significantly contribute to the area’s economic growth, creating jobs and opportunities for local artisans and performers.
