A new community based tourism enterprise, Amagugu International Heritage Centre, has been opened in Matopo, Zimbabwe.

Amagugu, which makes use of locals’ art and culture, provides a range of participatory cultural activities with the aim of promoting indigenous cultural heritage, says Programmes Manager Butho Nyathi.

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These activities include basket weaving, pottery, wood carving and leather works as well as traditional games, dance and music. “We also have a craft shop filled with artifacts made by the local community,” Nyathi said.

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Guests can also enjoy a braai (barbeque) on the mountain overlooking the Matopos natural landscape, Njelele Mountain and Gonde Dam as a senior tour guide explains the symbolism and significance of the nearby rain making shrine.

Other activities include nature walks where guests learn about the various indigenous tree species, and tours to the cave paintings.

“Another interesting aspect of the tour is a visit to the Memorable Order of the Tin Hats (MOTH) shrine. MOTH was set up after the First World War to support the soldiers who had fought in the war and also their families,” Nyathi explains.

Nyathi said plans were also underway to offer accommodation.

Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry is in the process of developing a community based tourism enterprise strategy and has engaged Japan Inter Co-operation Agency in the development of a community based tourism manual.

An official at the ministry said work on the manual has begun.