The Sunday News
Peter Matika Business Reporter
THE larger-than-life three-day long Jameson Victoria Falls Carnival, held in Victoria Falls could have been the missing element that Zimbabwe has been seeking to galvanise relations with other countries, while at the same time marketing itself through its natural wonders and beauty. Today in its third year running, characterised by a number of vibrant and exhilarating activities, the carnival is idolised as an essentially unique and enchanting African festival.
The activities included a train ride and secret bush party, which was on 29 December, colour festival and other parties on the following day and the New Year’s celebrations. Living up to its billing the carnival attracted approximately more than 2 000 people from across the globe, where it was not only a holiday experience for many but also a business venture.
One of the organisers of the event, Blessing Munyenyiwa said they were more than pleased with the turn out, adding that the next carnival would even be bigger and possibly invite bigger bands for performances.
“This is an event that should be on everyone’s calendar. It is turning out to be the epitome of African festivals, seeing the number of foreigners that were in attendance. This goes to show just how beautiful and peaceful Zimbabwe is. People really have an appreciation for this country and through this carnival we hope to galvanise relations with other countries,” he said.
The carnival not only drew the attention of people but that of bush critters such as curious monkeys, baboons and other small animals, which were an interesting sight for the tourists around the town.
Other animals that were sighted to illuminate the resort town was a big herd of elephants, which brought the Bulawayo-Vic Falls highway to a standstill while the giant tuskers made their way from the eastern to the western side of the Falls.
The carnival set in the majestic resort town of Victoria Falls is considered the perfect environment to resonate a unique African New Year.
Set in the spectacular town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, this 7th Wonder of the World and national heritage park is the perfect backdrop to ring in a uniquely African New Year. Artistes that featured at this year’s carnival included South Africa’s electronic duo Goldfish Live, Cape Town’s Beatenberg, Zimbabwe’s legendary musical superstar Oliver Mtukudzi and dancehall maestro Winky D. Also in the entertainment line-up were a number of DJs, who included ZiFM DJ, Jason Le Roux, DJ Hardwell (one-time world no. 1 DJ), Yolanda Be Cool, Alex Kenji, Belocca and Groove Armada to name a few.
