Calvin Manika in Victoria Falls
THE easing of the lockdown by government seems to slowly bringing back life in the resort city of Victoria Falls.
The Zambezi Times observed that the city is now a hive of activity though not yet to its usual levels it used enjoy in the pre-Covid-19 period.
Victoria Falls is one of the most popular tourism destinations in the country. As a result most people in the city eke a living through tourism related activities.
The opening of hotels and other recreational facilities brought back the majority of residents to work after months at home.
One of the residents Admire Gumbo said the situation is gradually improving and if it remains stable there are chances of boosting the tourism industry and life of the general populace.
“We are back at work, full time. Everyone from the formal to informal sector is doing business. Unlike that time where one needed to be a provider of essential services and have an exemption letter,” said Gumbo.
Some of the residents feel that despite the easing of lockdown in Zimbabwe, business has not yet been viable as they are no many tourists coming to the city.
“At least we are trying to find ourselves again. But, if you look at other countries especially in Europe, they are still under lockdown. Such situations affect us here. For our business to be sustainable, we need more tourists. The local tourists are still healing from the lockdown effects. However, we have started to see some conferences and meetings held in the city,” said Khumbulani Nkomo.
Speaking to the Zambezi Times Victoria Falls Residents Association secretary general Nguquko Tshili said it was the time to work for the residents as they have been affected for a long time.
“People in Victoria Falls had stays out of business for too long, without even the government cushioning their businesses that were affected by the Covid-pandemic. The few foreigners you see around are causing a scramble within the business community as residents try to get the little dollars from foreigners,” said Tshili.
Tshili said despite the efforts by residents, government intervention is critical to help the people of Victoria Falls fully resuscitate.
“As a community we wish the government could cushion the informal sector because it’s not going to be easy to start trading again.”
