A PROFOUND transformation is unfolding in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe’s premier tourist destination, as small to medium enterprises (SMEs) shift from informal survivalist ventures into formal, diversified tourism businesses that are redefining the hospitality landscape.
From taxi operators expanding into organised shuttle services, to curio vendors building family homes and bed and breakfast owners upgrading into modern boutique facilities, local entrepreneurs are progressively breaking traditional monopolies and claiming a central role in the tourism value chain.
The momentum began building in 2019, just before the Covid-19 pandemic halted global travel. While the crisis dealt a severe blow to the sector, the post-pandemic period has seen a gradual recovery, with many SMEs not only rebounding but also expanding into tourism niches previously dominated by large, established operators.
“What we are witnessing is a democratisation of tourism offerings. Local entrepreneurs are no longer supplementary service providers. They are becoming creators of core tourism experiences,” said business analyst Ms Beatrice Moyo.
Among the emerging success stories is Kalai Safaris, a tour operation founded by Mr Charles Chakanya and named after the iconic cry of the fish eagle. The company has carved out a niche by prioritising affordability and targeting the domestic and regional tourism market.
“Most tourism products are designed mainly for international visitors. We offer sunrise, lunch and sunset cruises that are accessible to local and regional travellers,” said Mr Chakanya.
He said the company has also invested heavily in educational cruises for schools and tailor-made packages for church groups, particularly women’s ministries visiting Victoria Falls.
“Our focus is on heritage-based learning and inclusive tourism experiences that speak to Zimbabweans,” he said.
Kalai Safaris reflects a growing cohort of SMEs that have moved beyond mere survival into innovation, crafting products that resonate with both local and cross-border visitors.
However, the growth has not been without challenges. The pandemic left deep financial scars, and many operators continue to grapple with accumulated debts, high rentals and costly licensing fees.
Ms Mercy Mushangwe, who runs a craft and tourism services business, said many SMEs are still recovering from nearly two years of minimal operations.
“We enjoyed the boom before Covid-19, but the pandemic left wounds. Some of us are still dealing with rentals that accumulated during long periods when business was almost non-existent,” she said.
Ms Mushangwe said long-term sustainability would require greater support in asset ownership.
“What we really need is assistance to acquire our own premises. If SMEs were allocated land to build their own shops instead of paying high rentals, overheads would be lower and we would be better positioned to withstand future shocks,” she said.
Her views reflect a broader call within the SME community for leniency on fees, levies and licensing requirements as businesses rebuild.
Despite the obstacles, the entrepreneurial spirit in Victoria Falls remains resilient. Curio traders have transitioned from roadside stalls to permanent shops, taxi drivers now operate registered transfer companies, and catering businesses have expanded into full-service event management.
Digital platforms, including online booking systems and social media marketing, are also becoming central to the growth strategies of these enterprises.
Tourism officials have welcomed the trend, saying the diversification of players strengthens the destination.
“When SMEs formalise and innovate, the entire tourism ecosystem benefits. They create more authentic experiences and ensure that the economic benefits of tourism are shared more widely,” said a local tourism executive.
Source: SMEs reshape Vic Falls tourism. . . locals move from informal trade to big business (04/02/2026)
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