Kariba Loses Status Despite Great Potential, Attractions

Source: The Herald (Harare)

Date: 25 November 2005

Author: Anon

Kariba appears to be losing its place as one of the country's prime tourist destinations despite its immense potential and exquisite attractions.

Most of the lakeside hotels have lost considerable business over the past years while others have even closed down.

A four-day visit by media practitioners bore testimony of the decline in business which has not spared other resorts. Chief among the causes of the decline were negative Press reports by some local and Western media.

An official at one of the hotels confirmed business had gone down, adding that they were now failing to maintain world-class standards due to shrinking revenues. The hotel buildings have gone for years without refurbishment while other key facilities are exhibiting signs of neglect.

"We are not receiving guests at all. As you can see, our facilities are sub-standard and are no longer as attractive (as before).

"But our hope is that we will be able to receive a number of guests during the festive season," said an employee at the Cutty Sark Hotel.

Although tourist arrivals have declined over the past five years, as was the case with other resort areas, hoteliers in Kariba are failing to keep pace with world standards.

"It's true that we have failed to maintain standards due to financial constraints but we are now inviting investors who can chip in with funds to refurbish the hotels," said one of the managers with Kariba Breezes Hotel.

To that end it was imperative that the Kariba Publicity Association, (KPA) - the resort area's promotional body - and various foundations, come up together with a package to revive tourism in the once booming resort town.

"What we need now is to market Kariba to retain its status as one of the country's prime tourist destinations. We, therefore, encourage our media people to closely work with us to complement our efforts," KPA spokesperson Mr Richard Mabhena told journalists.

Marineland general manager Mr Rob Fynn concurred with Mr Mabhena saying the media had an important role to play in reviving the industry.

"It is now time for you guys (journalists) to paint a positive picture about Kariba. "Your role is powerful and we believe you can bring a change in the industry," said Mr Fynn.

Kariba has a lot to offer. The destination is a unique example of the co-existence of people and wildlife.

Apart from its abundant wildlife, it is also a hub for commercial and leisure fishing. In addition, the lake boasts a vast array of game, including the big five --- elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino and leopard. It is also the venue of the immemsely popular tiger fishing tournament and a sailing regatta.

The adjoining Charara, Hurungwe and Chete safari areas also offer sought-after hunting expeditions.

Although the Kariba Heights village commands picturesque views of the lake and the dam wall, the vast collection of curio shops and roadside crafts have failed to keep alive the town's reputation.

Also of interest is the stained-glass sandstone St Barbara's Catholic Chapel, built as a memorial to the workers who perished during the construction of the dam in the late 1950s.

Kariba and the middle Zambezi also provide sanctuary to some of the most beautiful and wildlife-rich national parks in Southern Africa.